Gian Piero Gasperini says Inter stumble could open Serie A title race

Gian Piero Gasperini says Inter are the favourites to win Serie A this season, but believes every challenger will be entitled to dream if the defending champions begin to falter.

Roma moved temporarily into second place after beating Sassuolo 3-0 in the 11th round of the league season. The result took them to 27 points, one behind leaders Lazio.

Inter are third on 25 points, although they have played one match fewer than Roma.

“Inter are the favourites to win the league, as everyone says, but the other teams, including Roma, are still in the competition and have their opportunities,” Roma manager Gasperini told Sky.

“If Inter stumble, everyone will be able to dream and try to challenge them.”

Roma secured a convincing victory against Sassuolo, despite facing opponents who defended in numbers. Gasperini praised his side’s performance and highlighted the quality of their attacking play.

“We produced a strong performance tonight, and there were some excellent individual displays,” he said. “Hermoso’s wonderful goal, which gave us the lead, was one of them.

“The match was not easy against a team that defended deep, but we played with great quality.”

Gasperini also acknowledged Roma could aspire to challenge for the title after their encouraging start, while warning that the club must keep its ambitions realistic.

“I do not think there is anything wrong with dreaming, especially given the campaign we are having this season,” he said.

“But we must not deceive ourselves or raise our expectations excessively. I do not know how far we can go.”