Roma Coach Gasperini Feuds with Advisor Ranieri Ahead of Atalanta Match

ROME, Italy — Tensions between AS Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini and senior advisor Claudio Ranieri have escalated ahead of the team's crucial Serie A match against Atalanta on Saturday at the Stadio Olimpico, casting uncertainty over Gasperini's future at the club despite his contract running until June 2028.

The public feud, which has dominated preparations for the fixture, stems from disagreements over Roma's transfer strategy and leadership roles. Gasperini joined Roma last summer after nine successful years at Atalanta, where he built a competitive squad that regularly challenged Europe's elite while generating profits. Ranieri, who stepped down as Roma's coach after narrowly missing Champions League qualification last season, transitioned to a senior advisory position with the club's American owners, the Friedkin family. He played a key role in selecting Gasperini as his successor from a list of candidates, praising the coach's work with young players at Atalanta.

However, relations soured as Roma, currently sixth in the standings, struggles to secure a top-four finish needed for Champions League entry. The team sits three points behind fourth-placed Juventus with six...