Daniele De Rossi Commends Roma Players for Ethical Stand

AS Roma’s head coach, Daniele De Rossi (40), stood firm in defence of his players’ decision not to proceed with their Serie A match against Udinese on Sunday following the distressing collapse of defender Evan Ndicka (24) on the pitch. With the score tied at 1-1, the Ivorian centre-back fell backward onto the field with 18 minutes remaining, necessitating his removal on a stretcher.

Addressing the media ahead of Roma’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against AC Milan on Thursday, De Rossi prioritized Ndicka’s well-being, reassuring concerned observers that the player’s condition was relatively stable given the circumstances. Despite the gravity of Ndicka’s collapsed lung, De Rossi emphasized that the situation, while undoubtedly challenging, was not as dire as initially feared.

Following a prolonged interruption, Sunday’s fixture was eventually suspended, prompting the players to vacate the field, ultimately leading to the abandonment of the match. De Rossi expressed his surprise at the subsequent praise received by the team, asserting that their decision to halt play was simply the ethical course of action in such a distressing scenario.

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Reflecting on the ordeal, De Rossi underscored the profound impact such incidents have on players, highlighting the innate tension and apprehension experienced when faced with the prospect of resuming play amidst a teammate’s medical emergency. The uncertainty surrounding Ndicka’s condition, compounded by the possibility of a heart attack, further reinforced the players’ conviction to prioritize human welfare over sporting obligations.

Providing an update on Ndicka’s condition, De Rossi revealed that subsequent medical examinations ruled out any underlying heart condition, offering some relief amidst the collective concern. He emphasized the importance of unity and mutual respect among players, staff, and spectators in navigating such challenging circumstances, emphasizing the shared responsibility to prioritize human life above all else.

Contrary to misconceptions, De Rossi clarified that the decision to abandon the match was not solely his prerogative but rather a collective stance endorsed by the entire team, with the club’s backing. He hailed the episode as a testament to the familial bonds within the team, transcending mere sporting victories to underscore the solidarity and empathy inherent within the footballing community.

As discussions linger regarding the rescheduling of the Udinese fixture, De Rossi acknowledged the logistical challenges ahead, with a congested fixture list featuring crucial encounters against Bologna, Napoli, Juventus, and Atalanta in the coming weeks. Amidst the uncertainty, the focus remains steadfast on honoring the principles of integrity, solidarity, and compassion that define AS Roma both on and off the pitch.