Roma’s manager, Jose Mourinho, expressed frustration over the financial constraints binding the Serie A club, emphasising that their “reality is different” compared to clubs like Manchester City.
Despite Roma’s significant spending of over €100 million ($109 million) in Mourinho’s inaugural season, the last two seasons have seen minimal transfers totaling €9.5 million.
This conservative approach aligns with UEFA’s financial fair play regulations, leading to the sale of first-choice center-back Roger Ibañez to Al Ahli in August for financial stability.
Notably, marquee signings Romelu Lukaku and Renato Sanches were secured through loan deals this summer.
Compounded by the challenges of long-term injuries to striker Tammy Abraham and defender Chris Smalling, Roma currently find themselves struggling in fourth place in Serie A.
The imminent departure of center-back Evan Ndicka for the African Cup of Nations in January further exacerbates the defensive concerns.
Despite the desire to strengthen the squad in the upcoming January transfer window, Mourinho acknowledges the hurdles Roma faces due to financial limitations.
“Not that I’m jealous, but Man City paid €80 million ($87 million) for [Kalvin] Phillips and now Pep [Guardiola] has said it would be better for him to leave in January. So he’ll leave and they’ll get someone else,” Mourinho said in his news conference ahead of Roma’s Europa League clash with Sheriff on Thursday.
“Our reality is very different. We’d like one, two, three or four new players. Tiago [Pinto] too. And the owners, too. We all want to try and improve the team to make us better for the second half of the season.
“However, it’s not easy for us to do that. I’ll be honest; if we bring in a defender in January, I’ll already be happy. But if you ask me if I’d like more than that, of course I’d like more. But it’s not possible. They’re working to try to give me options, to give me a defender.”
In the recent 3-2 victory over Red Star Belgrade, Phillips, acquired by City for €49 million in 2022, secured only his second start for the club this season and impressively scored a penalty. Sources revealed to ESPN last month that Newcastle United are considering a move for the talented England midfielder.
Heading into Thursday’s encounter against Sheriff, Roma hold the second position in their Europa League group, with qualification for the next round already assured. Their latest Serie A fixture saw them secure a 1-1 draw against Fiorentina last Sunday.