Former Rome midfielder Stroman accepted an exclusive interview with the official website of the Rome Club, fondly reviewed his five years with the Red Wolves, shared his special memories of the Roman Derby, and talked about his life after retirement.
Do you know that Roma won the last away derby in 2016, and it was your goal? What does that goal mean to you?
I saw it on social media yesterday, I didn’t know before... Well, it’s almost ten years passed. When I relive the picture of that goal, it immediately gave me a special feeling and gave me goosebumps. Those moments are everything the player needs. If you scored in the derby and won the game, yes, you feel like you are important. After that injury, I felt less important than before, but that day, I took back a small portion of Rome that belonged to me because I knew how important this (win) is to our fans.
Your first derby was after losing the 2013 Italian Cup final. What is that meaning?
It was a strange game with fewer fans than usual. After that Cup of Italy I heard them talk about, we won. This proves that we did a good job at the time. We didn't play very well, but on the court we knew we would never lose. If you have Toti, De Rossi, Macon, Benatia around you, these experienced players can give you a positive feeling and everything will be easier. After Barzareti scored, it was a liberation for all of us and for the Roma fans.
Your last derby was after reversing Barcelona 3-0. Do you still have any impression?
After creating a miracle in the Champions League, we were sure we could win that game. We are strong and in a positive time, we did everything we could to win, but maybe because the previous game was too much to consume, we lacked a little energy.
What do you think about tomorrow's derby (versus Lazio)?
I will watch it on my phone. I promised to take my daughter to the park, but I couldn't break my promise. But I will definitely watch it. In my opinion, Rome is stronger. I hope the opponent fans will not be upset. This is just my idea and we will see the difference on the court.
Why is Rome so special to you?
Because everything happened here. This is a microcosm of my life. It was a five-year full of ups and downs, but I always got support from all sides. Whether I play well, poorly, injured or score goals. I can feel the enthusiasm of the fans, management, coaches, and I am so excited about talking about Roma. I mean it is true. Those were the best five years of my career, and I gave everything for this jersey and Roma. My only regret is not winning anything, which really makes me feel sorry for it.
What did you know about this team before joining Roma? What made you finally decide to come?
symbols of Rome, de Rossi and Totti. Even if the team is changing, they are always there. Everyone knew them, even outside Rome. It's great to be able to play football with them and share the locker room. I always wanted to go to the Premier League when I was in Eindhoven, but when the offer from Roma came, they wanted me at all costs, and there were Totti and De Rossi in the team, so I would no doubt it.
In 2024, De Rossi accompanied you to say goodbye to the south stands at the Olympic Stadium. What kind of moment was that?
Daniele (De Rossi) is a great guy and he gave me a chance to say goodbye to the fans. That was the perfect ending of my career.
You announced your retirement a year ago. How is your life now? What are your plans for the future?
I am very good and spend a lot of time with my children. They are still young, and I have time to send them to school and pick them up from school. I'm regaining the things and time I couldn't do as a player. I feel good and don't rush to do anything in football. Let’s talk about the future, there is time. But one thing will not change, that is, always support Rome.