Francesco Totti will see his contract with Roma expire in the summer, but the Giallorossi icon is making a convincing argument to secure a new deal.
The on-going bust-up between the 39-year-old and coach Luciano Spalletti has dominated headlines in recent weeks, although the latter insisted earlier this week that they had put it behind them, according to ESPN FC.
In turn, following his heroics on Sunday to earn Roma a point at Atalanta, Totti once again came off the bench on Wednesday night to score a brace in three minutes to secure a 3-2 win over Torino.
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The victory was significant too, as coupled with Inter’s loss to Genoa, it allowed the capital club to open up a seven-point gap as they look to secure third place in Serie A and a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season.
Furthermore, Roma had been held to consecutive draws prior to the midweek round of fixtures, and the pressure was certainly building on Spalletti and his team to get back to winning ways to avoid being surpassed by their rivals.
Totti’s timing in terms of his purple patch in front of goal has been perfect, and it will only further endear him to his supporters who have watched him develop and establish his legacy in the 27 years that he has spent at the Stadio Olimpico.
While his list of honours is ultimately disappointing for a player of his talent, the loyalty he has shown to the Giallorossi has ensured that he remains a hero with the club’s supporters.
As a result, it is no surprise to see that many have sided with him during conflicts with coaches and the hierarchy, as he is a symbol of the club and will be remembered in the history books as one of, if not the most, revered individual to play for Roma.
Spalletti insisted after the game that he accepts Totti won’t always be happy with his choices, but ultimately he must make decisions based on the good of the entire club.
Although their relationship doesn’t sound as though it has been fully repaired, the pair must find a balance to ensure that both continue at the club and get the best out of each other.
Given his advancing years, it is no surprise that Totti has had to adjust and adapt. Speculation has linked him with an exit in the summer, but ultimately it would be a travesty to see him in any other shirt than Roma’s.
In turn, it is hoped that all concerned can reach an agreement over an extension as he evidently still wants to continue his playing career, with a directorial position awaiting him when he finally decides to hang up his boots.
Based on his current form, there is no reason as to why the King of Rome would want to call time this summer and Roma will be under pressure to agree a deal if it continues.