Gian Piero Gasperini takes charge at Roma as Atalanta turn to Ivan Juric

The 67-year-old tactician, renowned for his attacking philosophy, left Atalanta after a trophy-laden nine-year spell to take on the challenge in the Italian capital.

"I'm ready for a big challenge," Gasperini said in a statement released by Roma. "This club has all the ingredients to achieve great things, and I'm excited to get started."

Roma, owned by American businessman Dan Friedkin, secured Gasperini on a three-year contract. His time at Atalanta saw the Bergamo side claim the 2024 Europa League, achieve six top-four Serie A finishes, and reach a Champions League quarterfinal. His dynamic 3-4-3 system transformed Atalanta into a force, and Roma fans are eager to see that flair in the capital.

Meanwhile, Atalanta moved swiftly to appoint Ivan Juric as their new coach on a two-year deal. Juric, a former assistant under Gasperini, returned to Bergamo after brief stints at Roma and Southampton, where the Saints suffered Premier League relegation in 2024-25.

Juric's earlier tenure at Roma lasted less than three months, having replaced Daniele De Rossi in September before Ranieri's arrival.

Ranieri, 73, took charge in November with Roma languishing in 12th place. The veteran coach lost just one match in the second half of the season, guiding the Giallorossi to fifth place and Europa League qualification.

Ranieri, who played a role in selecting Gasperini, will now transition into an advisory position at the club, as stipulated in his contract.

Gasperini's appointment marks Roma's fourth managerial change in 18 months, following Jose Mourinho's sacking in January 2024, De Rossi's brief tenure, Juric's short stint, and Ranieri's interim role. His only prior experience at a major Italian club was a brief, winless five-match spell at Inter Milan in 2011.

In an open letter published in Bergamo's L'Eco di Bergamo on Saturday, Gasperini bid an emotional farewell to Atalanta fans. "This isn't goodbye," he wrote. "My time as Atalanta's coach ends, but my connection to this city and club will always remain."

Recent posts on X from Roma's official account confirmed Gasperini's arrival, with the club stating, "We welcome Gian Piero Gasperini, a coach with a proven track record of success and an exciting vision for football."

Atalanta's X post praised Gasperini's legacy, noting, "Thank you, Gian Piero, for nine unforgettable years and our first European trophy."

Since Friedkin's takeover in 2020, Roma have won only the 2022 Conference League, and the club continue to face delays in their long-planned new stadium project. Gasperini's attacking approach could be the spark to push Roma toward greater success, both domestically and in Europe.