Daniele De Rossi has been dismissed by Roma following a difficult beginning to the Serie A season, as the club aims to return to their ‘preferred direction.’

In a surprising turn of events, Daniele De Rossi has been dismissed from his role as head coach of AS Roma following a challenging start to the 2024/25 season. The former midfielder, who made over 600 appearances for the club during his illustrious 18-year playing career, was a beloved figure among the Giallorossi faithful.

De Rossi stepped into the managerial role on an interim basis after the departure of Jose Mourinho in January. Despite recently signing a new contract that would have kept him at the helm until 2027, the club’s board has opted to part ways with him after a winless start to the league campaign.

In an official statement, AS Roma announced: “AS Roma announces that Daniele De Rossi has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the first team. The club’s decision is made in the best interests of the team, to get back on the desired path as soon as possible at a time when the season is still in its early stages.”

The statement continued with a note of gratitude: “A heartfelt thank you to Daniele, who will always be at home at the Giallorossi club, for the work he has done in recent months with passion and dedication. Communication regarding the team’s technical guidance will follow.”

During his brief tenure, De Rossi managed to lead Roma to the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League last season and secured a sixth-place finish in the league. However, the current campaign has seen the team struggle, sitting precariously just one point above the relegation zone in 16th place after drawing three of their first four matches.

The latest setback came on Sunday when Roma appeared poised to secure their first victory of the season against Genoa, only to be thwarted by a last-gasp equaliser from Koni De Winter in the 96th minute.

With De Rossi’s departure, Roma now finds themselves in search of their eighth manager in just 11 years, highlighting the club’s ongoing struggle for stability and consistency in the dugout. The board will need to act swiftly, as the team faces a busy schedule ahead, including a home league clash against Udinese and a Europa League encounter against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

As the dust settles on this latest managerial change, the Giallorossi will be hoping for a swift turnaround in fortunes as they look to reclaim their place among Italy’s elite.