Tony D’Amico: Manu Kone stays at Roma despite Chelsea interest

Roma director Tony D’Amico has expressed his satisfaction that Manu Kone remains at the Stadio Olimpico following a dramatic conclusion to the summer transfer window. The French international was the subject of intense speculation and a substantial late approach from Chelsea, who were looking to bolster their midfield options.

Before the Fiorentina match, I said it would be difficult for us to deprive ourselves of important players so near to the end of the transfer session, and that proved to be the case. Kone is an important player, we’re happy that he remained with us, and are confident that he will give his contribution during the season. Tony D’Amico

The influence of head coach Gian Piero Gasperini was decisive in rebuffing the Premier League side. Reports suggest the coach personally vetoed any sale, believing that losing such a profile without a ready-made replacement would have jeopardized Roma’s aspirations in both domestic competition and the upcoming Champions League campaign.

Regarding tactical evolution, D’Amico pointed toward internal solutions for the wide attacking positions, specifically mentioning new arrival Rodrigo Mora. The club also continues to show faith in academy graduate Emanuele Lulli, who has been keeping recent signing Nahuel Molina out of the starting XI.

As the transfer noise fades, the focus has returned to squad fitness. Both Paulo Dybala and Evan Ndicka have recovered from muscular issues, providing a major boost to Gasperini as the team prepares for a congested schedule starting with a high-stakes Champions League fixture.