Baldanzi: Transferring to a big club does require adaptation, and Soule is also adjusting

Roma will host Dynamo Kyiv in the third round of the UEFA Europa League group stage. On the eve of the match, Roma midfielder Baldanzi attended a press conference.

How are you feeling physically? How is the team preparing for this match?  
I feel good. I managed to complete a full pre-season, which is important for us. I'm in good physical and mental condition. Dynamo Kyiv is a very strong team with an intense style of play, so it will be tough. But we want to perform well and get our first three points in Europe—we need those three points.

You spent some time in Rome in the spring to adapt. Do you think this period will be useful for another player coming from a smaller club, like Matías Soulé? How important was that time for you?
When you transfer from a lower-ranked team to a higher-ranked one, it does take some time to adapt. Soulé is a top player, and he's slowly but surely adjusting. I’m confident he’ll achieve great success.

There are three left-footed players in the attacking midfield position. In the 3-4-2-1 formation, do you think you're more suited to playing on the right side as an inverted winger, or do you prefer playing as a left midfielder?  
For me, it’s the same. I don’t often play on the left, but honestly, I can adapt to both positions because the movement is similar.

The fans have been protesting for a month now. How is the mood in the locker room? 
Honestly, in the locker room, we are only focused on the game and playing well. We understand the situation in the stands, as things aren't great at the moment. We have to work hard to get their support, and I think the only way to do that is by performing well.

How was your summer? You started playing in a three-man midfield under Daniele De Rossi, and then the formation changed. Did that period help you? Previously, you played in a more advanced role with fewer shooting opportunities—do you feel less responsibility now?  
It was very important. I'm still young, and at a big club like this, you have to be able to play in different positions if needed. It also helped me improve defensively.