Roberto De Zerbi has revealed why a Europa League battle with Roma will be extra special.
Albion will visit the Stadio Olimpico in the first leg of the last 16 on March 7 (5.45pm UK time) with the return at the Amex a week later (March 14, 8pm).
It sets up a tussle between fiery Italian coaches with Daniele De Rossi having recently taken over from Jose Mourinho at Roma.
De Zerbi said: "De Rossi is my friend. Our daughters are big friends and I have big respect for him.
“I knew before he worked at Roma he could be a great coach because as a player he showed incredible character, his father is a coach.
“He feels football like me, he has a big heart, he is a passionate person and we are friends. But I hope to win."
De Zerbi will keep focus on domestic action for now.
He said: "I want to keep my eyes on the Everton game and then we play in the FA Cup against Wolves.
"It’s a tough game, but if we want to go far in the Europa League we have to win.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel