Introduction to AS Roma
AS Roma, or Associazione Sportiva Roma, is a prestigious professional football club based in Rome, Italy. Founded in the spring of 1927, AS Roma was the result of a merger between three older Italian Football Championship clubs: Roman FC, SS Alba-Audace, and Fortitudo-Pro Roma SGS. The merger, orchestrated by Italo Foschi, a key figure in the ruling National Fascist Party, aimed to create a strong football presence in the Italian capital capable of challenging the dominance of Northern Italian clubs. Since its formation, AS Roma has grown into one of Italy’s most celebrated football institutions, known for its passionate fan base, iconic stadium, and rich history.
Founding and Early Success of the Club
AS Roma’s creation was driven by a desire to bring glory to Rome, a city that lacked a football team capable of competing with the powerhouses from the North of Italy. The club’s first major success came in the 1941–42 season when Roma unexpectedly won their first Serie A title, known as the Scudetto. This victory was a significant achievement, marking Roma’s arrival as a serious contender in Italian football.
Roma’s distinctive team colors of carmine red with a golden yellow trim symbolize the traditional colors of Rome, reflecting the city’s imperial history. The kit, initially worn by Roman FC before the merger, has become a symbol of the club’s identity, earning them the nickname “I Giallorossi,” meaning the “Yellow-Reds.” Over the years, AS Roma’s away kit has traditionally been white, with the third kit changing colors depending on the season. AS Roma’s identity as a brand symbolizes the traditional colors of Rome and the club’s legacy.
Stadio Olimpico and Facilities
AS Roma’s journey through various stadiums reflects its growth and evolution as a club. The Motovelodromo Appio, a building that Alba-Audace had previously used, served as Roma’s first location. However, this was a short-term arrangement, with the club moving to Campo Testaccio the following season. Campo Testaccio served as Roma’s home from 1929 to 1940 before the team moved to Stadio Nazionale del PNF, where they remained for 13 years. The pre-match apparel associated with AS Roma, including jackets, tracksuits, and sweatpants, emphasizes the team’s readiness and style before a game.
In the 1953–54 season, AS Roma made a significant move to Stadio Olimpico, one of Italy’s most famous stadiums, which it shares with city rivals Lazio. Stadio Olimpico has undergone several renovations, most notably in the 1990s when it was demolished and reconstructed for the 1990 FIFA World Cup held in Italy. Despite this reconstruction, AS Roma has consistently played at Stadio Olimpico since 1953, with the only exception being the 1989–90 season when the club temporarily relocated to Stadio Flaminio due to renovations.
In 2012, club president James Pallotta announced plans for a new stadium, Stadio della Roma, in the Tor di Valle area of Rome. Despite numerous delays and setbacks, the stadium was expected to open for the 2020–21 season. However, as of February 2021, the project was halted, leaving the future of the stadium uncertain.
Trigoria: The Heart of Roma
AS Roma’s training ground, located in Trigoria, is a cornerstone of the club’s infrastructure. Purchased in July 1977 by then-club president Gaetano Anzalone, the sports center was officially opened in July 1979 as Anzalone’s final act as president. Over the years, the Trigoria facility, officially named Fulvio Bernardini di Trigoria in honor of the club icon, has undergone several expansions, making it a state-of-the-art training center for the club.
In 2019, Trigoria took on a new role, serving as a private school for AS Roma’s youth players. Known as ‘Liceo Scientifico Sportivo A.S. Roma,’ this school is dedicated exclusively to educating the team’s future stars, providing both academic and athletic training. The facility also has a rich history, having hosted the Argentina national team during the 1990 FIFA World Cup.
Achievements and Honors
AS Roma’s history is marked by numerous achievements in both domestic and European competitions. The club has won the prestigious Serie A title three times, in 1941–42, 1982–83, and 2000–01. Roma has also claimed nine Coppa Italia titles and two Supercoppa Italiana titles, establishing itself as one of Italy’s most successful football clubs.
In European competitions, AS Roma has also made its mark. The club won the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1960–61 and the UEFA Conference League in 2021–22. Additionally, Roma has finished as runners-up in several major European tournaments, including the 1983–84 European Cup, the 1990–91 UEFA Cup, and the 2022–23 UEFA Europa League. Despite facing strong competition, Roma has consistently performed at a high level, earning respect across the continent.
The Current Squad
AS Roma’s current soccer squad features a mix of seasoned professionals and promising young talents. Key players include:
- Lorenzo Pellegrini (captain): A dynamic midfielder known for his stamina, ball control, and ability to link defense and attack effectively. Pellegrini’s leadership on the pitch has been vital to Roma’s success in recent years.
- Paulo Dybala: A world-class forward who brings creativity and flair to the team’s attack. Dybala’s ability to score from long range and his vision on the ball make him a constant threat to opponents.
- Chris Smalling: A stalwart in defense, Smalling’s experience in top-tier football has been crucial in bolstering Roma’s backline.
- Gianluca Mancini (vice-captain): Another key defensive player, Mancini is known for his tactical awareness and strong aerial presence.
Best Players of All Time
AS Roma has been home to several legendary players throughout its history. Sixteen players have won the FIFA World Cup while playing for Roma, including:
- Franco Tancredi: Widely regarded as one of the best Italian goalkeepers of his generation, Tancredi helped Roma win four Coppa Italia titles and one Serie A title during his 13 years with the club.
- Aldair: A legendary Brazilian defender, Aldair spent 13 years at Roma, making 436 appearances and captaining the team. He is the most capped foreign player in the club’s history.
- Giacomo Losi: Known as “the Heart of Roma,” Losi played his entire career with Roma, making 455 appearances over 14 years and winning two Coppa Italia titles.
Rivalries with Juventus
AS Roma’s most intense rivalry is with Lazio, the club it shares the Stadio Olimpico with. The matches between these two teams, known as the Derby della Capitale, are among the most passionate and fiercely contested in world football. Roma also has rivalries with other Italian clubs such as Napoli, Juventus, Milan, Atalanta, and Internazionale, driven by their frequent battles for top positions in the league.
Conclusion
AS Roma is not just a football club; it is a symbol of Roman pride and passion. From its founding in 1927 to its current status as one of Italy’s top clubs, Roma has built a legacy of success, resilience, and tradition. With a rich history of achievements, a strong current squad, and an ever-passionate fan base, AS Roma continues to be a force in Italian and European football. The club’s journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges, reflects the enduring spirit of Rome itself.
