Claudio Ranieri returns to AS Roma as head coach

AS Roma has officially appointed Claudio Ranieri as the new Head Coach of the First Team, marking the return of a beloved figure to the club.

A statement posted by AS Roma on its website on Thursday noted that Ranieri, a lifelong fan of Roma and former player, will lead the team for the remainder of the season before transitioning into a senior executive role, where he will advise the ownership on sporting matters.

Ranieri, who previously served as Roma’s head coach from 2009 to 2011 and again in 2019, is widely respected in the football world.

“He is a true symbol of the club’s values and one of the most respected Roman sports figures worldwide.

“Ranieri brings with him an immense wealth of knowledge and experience from Serie A, the Premier League, La Liga, and Ligue 1, having managed top European clubs and won historic titles, such as his legendary 2016 triumph with Leicester.

“The club extends its best wishes to him for this exciting new chapter in his career, confident that he will be an invaluable asset to the team and to all of AS Roma.

“Forza Roma and welcome home, Mister,” the club said.

He replaces Ivan Juric, who was hired in September following the dismissal of former club captain Daniele De Rossi, but was sacked after Sunday’s 3-2 home defeat at the hands of Bologna.

Juric’s short spell in charge was a disaster, with four wins from 12 matches in all competitions, and the former Croatia international left Roma 12th in Serie A, just four points above the relegation zone.