Totti predicts unexpected hero of Roma vs. Inter ‘battle’

Roma legend Francesco Totti makes a rather surprising prediction for this weekend’s clash between the Giallorossi and Inter, when asked to tip the most decisive player. ‘It’ll be a battle.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

“I have played this fixture many times and I know full well what this match means, especially at a moment like this when Roma are top of the table,” Totti told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“This is one of those games where you don’t need a shirt and tie, but a helmet. Inter are probably the most elegant team in Serie A, but this will be a battle.”

Paulo Dybala could return to the starting XI after injury problems, although Angelino is a major doubt with bronchitis, while Marcus Thuram and Matteo Darmian are out for Inter.

With that in mind, who does Totti tip to be decisive this weekend?

“I might be banal, but Lautaro Martinez and Dybala are players who are capable of changing a game. However, if I had to choose someone to make the difference, I’d go for Bryan Cristante.

“As I said, it’s going to be a battle, and when you need to go out there wearing a helmet, the midfielders are crucial. Cristante is someone you can always rely on. Daniele De Rossi was right when he said Roma should always have someone like him.

“He has football intelligence and has always been underestimated, but his presence is felt on the field. Bryan always gives you something extra and never holds back in the tackle.”

Roma have had a remarkable start to life under new coach Gian Piero Gasperini, as they are joint top of the table with Napoli.

“Hopefully they can continue like this to the end,” added Totti.

“It’s a long journey and we are only at the start, so we should wait before passing judgment. If they should still be among the top teams with 7-8 games left, then they can dream.

“I can say this side has everything required to target a Champions League place, which is the main objective.”

Totti has revealed in the past that he was approached by clubs to leave Roma, including Inter and Real Madrid, but has no regrets.

“I spent 25 years with Roma and it is a decision I would not change for anything. It was a different choice from many other players, but one I felt was right.”