Former Roma boss Luciano Spalletti has revealed that he believes his old club are one of the main favourites to challenge Juventus for Serie A glory this season.
The Rome side found themselves finishing 17 points behind the Old Lady over the past two seasons, but Spalletti believes that his former team can now provide a challenge to the Turin club alongside fellow contenders Inter Milan.
"Coach Roberto Mancini used the last six months to start the selection process and perform experiments. It's a big advantage to have," Spalletti told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"Mauro Icardi finished as the league's top goalscorer last year with Luca Toni and is a genuine hitman, which every side needs. Mancini put a top player like Stevan Jovetic next to him, so with this pairing Inter cannot pretend they're not out to win the Scudetto.
"Roma are the favourites, though. They are very strong with a world-class midfield and made some important signings in attack. Don't leave Juventus for dead, as that would be a huge mistake. The historic core of the side will help the newcomers quickly understand what it means to play with the Bianconeri jersey."
Roma currently hold seventh spot in the Serie A standings, having collected four points from two games.
Christopher Dodd
