Watch AS Roma vs Manchester United Online Live - Champions League Preview
AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti described Manchester United FC as "the best side in the world" on the eve of the teams' UEFA Champions League quarter-final rematch – but he is determined that the generosity ends there. Nobody connected to the Italian club needs reminding of the Giallorossi's fate 12 months ago, their 2-1 first-leg advantage swept away in a 7-1 drubbing in Manchester. Given United got the better of their rivals in this season's group stage too – winning 1-0 at home then drawing 1-1 away – it is little wonder Spalletti was so lavish in his praise.
"On paper, Manchester United are the best side in the world. They have quality everywhere, not only in attack but also in defence. They are good in choosing their players – they can pick the best ones because of their financial power, but they are also good at getting the best out of all of them." Citing the Premier League leaders' speed on the counterattack as a particular menace, Spalletti added that they "can be more dangerous away than at home" but stressed that his charges would provide tougher resistance this time. "We are not mere spectators, we want to show we deserve to be here," he said. Joking about the fine Tuscan wine he presented Sir Alex Ferguson with last term, the coach said that he would "stop making gifts on and off the pitch" – and certainly Roma's impressive elimination of Real Madrid CF in the last round lends weight to Spalletti's conviction that "we are more mature".
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