Roma new boy Castro sets sights on derby double and hails Gasperini: ‘Proven his worth’

By Samira Vishwas On Jul 30, 2026

Official: Santiago Castro joins Roma from Bologna (via www.asroma.com)

Santiago Castro has wasted little time outlining his ambitions at Roma, with the new signing dreaming of a derby double against Lazio and lavishing praise on head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

With quotes via Tuttomercatowebthe Argentine forward, signed from Bologna, gave his first interview to Roma’s official channels, discussing the speed of his move, his admiration for Gasperini and how he sees his role.

Castro said the switch was simple once Roma declared their hand.

“Quite a short negotiation, actually, because from the very first moment I wanted to come here,” he explained. “I spoke with the sporting director, who told me what they wanted from me. I know what I can do and how I can help the manager and my team-mates. From that moment, I chose Roma.”

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 19: Santiago Castro of Bologna celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg match between AS Roma and Bologna FC 1909 at Stadio Olimpico on March 19, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Castro hails Gasperini for taking Roma back to the Champions League

The Argentine was just as glowing about the coach who will shape his development.

Gasperini steered Roma into next season’s Champions League in his debut campaign, and his pedigree clearly counted. “Gasperini is a coach who has proven his worth in Italy for many years,” Castro said. “He did it with Atalanta and now with Roma, taking them back to the Champions League. I see myself wherever he wants me, I’m here to help the team.”

Pressed on his own game, Castro played down the 22 goals he scored in 105 Bologna appearances to stress a team-first streak. “I’m a player who has to improve in everything,” he said. “I don’t just look at statistics, but at what’s good for the team.”

He saved his boldest line for the derby. Having previously scored at the Olimpico against both Roma and Lazio, including a brace against the Biancocelesti, Castro is already relishing the fixture. “In my last two games here I scored, and against Lazio I got two,” he said. “Now we want to carry on like that, maybe two goals in the derby.”