Mancini warns: ‘Yes, Roma are first, but we’re not in May yet’

Roma defender Gianluca Mancini is delighted to see his side sit at the top of the Serie A standings after 12 matches, and though he feels the Giallorossi ‘have what it takes’, he warns ‘we’re not in May yet’. 

The Italy international was the recipient of the Beppe Viola award on Monday evening: “This is a valued award, I am honoured and proud. On the pitch, we are examples for youngsters and those who watch us,” Mancini told reporters at the event. 

Roma currently sit alone at the top of the Serie A standings after their 3-1 win away against Cremonese on Sunday. A favour from Milan against Inter in the Derby della Madonnina means that the Giallorossi are currently two points clear at the top of the standings. 

Despite his side’s promising start to the season, which has seen them win nine of their first 12 matches in Serie A, Mancini warns that there is still a long way if Roma are to win the Scudetto this season. 

“We’re still just at the beginning of the season, we’re in November and it’s a long season. Yes, we are first today, but we’re not in May yet and we have to keep our feet on the ground. We’re worked hard in every game, we have to carry on like that and keep doing what we’re doing,” Mancini said. 

Still, he feels that Gian Piero Gasperini has all the tools at his disposal to succeed in Serie A this term. 

“The conditions are there, we have a lot of quality and our group has what it takes. As the coach has said, everyone can dream, in sport and in life. The important thing is to work hard and we have to be focused on doing that. 

“Scoring is a beautiful feeling, even more so for us defenders because we don’t get to do it very often. It’s another way of helping the team win. With the way the coach plays, I can step up and be even more dangerous.” 

Mancini also sent a quick message to supporters of the national team following the confirmation that Italy will have to go through the play-offs to earn a spot at the 2026 World Cup. 

“We want to get to the World Cup, you all want it. We have to stand together to achieve this goal.”