Even when The Friedkin Group taking over at Everton was in its initial rumour stages, there were worries around AS Roma about what it would mean for the future of the Serie A club.
There was a widespread assumption that if a Premier League club was purchased it would automatically be the senior party in the group, and therefore be where most concentration and financial strength would be sent.
This week already there’s been worries in the Roma media about a potential sale of the Italian club, should Friedkin conclude a deal for Everton.
Given it was announced on Monday that, subject to regulatory approval, the takeover is happening at Everton, more concern has been encouraged.
This is added to a period of tension, following the sacking of Daniele De Rossi as manager, which has seen protests against how Roma is being run.
To try and help matters, The Friedkin Group have now issued an official statement to AS Roma fans, addressing the Everton takeover, and trying to put minds at rest.
The statement reads: ‘Football is admired around the world as the beautiful game. Each match is filled with passion, excitement and unpredictability – and that’s why we love it.
But beyond the results on the pitch, our responsibility as club owners is to make big decisions that we believe are in the best interest of the club, even when they are very difficult to make.
The transfer signings this summer marked the beginning of a strategic multi-year project designed to bring AS Roma back to the forefront of European football. As part of this vision, the development of a new stadium, which will honour the club’s deep history, is well underway.
Let us say this; we have the utmost respect for Daniele and believe he will have a great career as a coach. Maybe even one day back at Roma. The decision to part ways with him was incredibly difficult, but we made it with the belief that it gives us the best opportunity to compete for trophies this season.
We remain active investors in the sports industry. We love the beautiful game. The potential addition of Everton to our portfolio does not alter our focus on AS Roma. If anything, the multi-club symbiosis will only help Roma. Each club in our portfolio operates independently and AS Roma remains at the heart of our football ambitions. Rest assured, our commitment of time, resources, and energy to Roma will not be diminished. Our goal is clear – to see AS Roma consistently compete at the highest levels of European football.
To our incredible fans, we acknowledge the immense responsibility we bear in leading this historic club. Your unwavering loyalty fuels us as we continue building for the future. We value your voices and want you to know — we hear you. You are the soul of this club, and we are determined to make you proud.
Forza Roma.
Dan and Ryan Friedkin’
