Paredes: “We’ll need to be at 100% against Leverkusen”

Here’s what the Argentine midfielder had to say...

Why do you think you’ve improved so much under the stewardship of Daniele De Rossi?

“In terms of development, I don’t think it’s just me, but that goes for the whole team. The feeling of excitement that the coach has brought with him and his style of play, which is better suited to our qualities, have been key. That’s why I’ve improved and so has the whole team.”

What was it like being back with De Rossi as your coach after having him as a team-mate earlier in your career?

“All good. He was already a coach in my eyes when he played alongside me. I’ve always been close to him. I’ve had a good relationship with him since I arrived in Rome. He’s always treated me well, so having him as my coach is a pleasure and an honour. I hope to keep working hard and making my own contribution to him, Roma and the whole team.”

Going back to the above, what did you like the most about De Rossi as a player and could you name a weakness of his nowadays?

“His personality and the quality that he used to have. He was such a complete midfielder. There were few others like him in football. As for what he can improve on, I think he eats too much!”

On a tactical level, what has changed since the boss took over? Are you more involved in the play?

“As I’ve said since the day he arrived, his playing style and mentality are very similar to mine. I’m getting into my best shape. I hope to feel better and better because, as I said earlier, I can still improve further.”

As a team and also as individuals, you’ve already played in many of these types of games here and elsewhere in the past. How important is it to be used to such showdowns?

“It’s so important. When you’re used to playing in these types of matches, you try to play in more of them. Reaching a European semi-final and facing a team like Bayer Leverkusen will certainly be fantastic. We hope to perform well because in order to win, we’ll have to be at our best and give 100% as they’re such as strong side.”