Nicola Zalewski has added his voice to the chorus of criticism surrounding Bodo/Glimt's artificial turf, echoing his manager Jose Mourinho's frustration after Roma's 2-1 defeat in the Conference League quarter-final first leg. 'Playing a quarter-final on a pitch like this is unimaginable,' the young midfielder lamented, highlighting a growing concern in European football.
The debate over synthetic surfaces has intensified, particularly in Norway, as Bodo/Glimt continue their European journey. This marks the third meeting between the sides this season, and Roma have yet to secure a victory. The Giallorossi suffered a humiliating 6-1 loss in the group stage, managed a 2-2 draw at home, and now face an uphill battle after this latest setback.
The match itself was a tale of missed opportunities. Lorenzo Pellegrini gave Roma an early lead, but the momentum shifted dramatically. Ulrik Saltnes capitalized on a defensive lapse, redirecting Brice Wembangomo's effort past a stunned Rui Patricio, while Hugo Vetlesen headed home unmarked from a free kick to seal the win for the hosts.
'There are regrets, because we controlled the game in every moment until going behind,' Zalewski told Sky Sport Italia. 'As ever in football, incidents make the difference, and we need a great performance in a week's time.'
Mourinho had earlier condemned the artificial turf as 'plastic,' blaming it for Gianluca Mancini's knee injury. Zalewski doubled down on that sentiment, urging UEFA to take action. 'Playing a quarter-final of a European competition on a pitch like this is just unimaginable. Hopefully, UEFA will take action in future years, because this playing surface causes serious injuries.'
Despite the defeat, the teenager's composure on the field has been a bright spot for Roma. With a late error from Matias Vina giving away the free kick that led to the decisive goal, Zalewski's spot in the starting lineup appears secure. 'I try to do everything I can with every ball so I can help the team,' he said. 'I am not feeling the pressure, my teammates and the staff are helping a great deal.'
As Roma prepare for the return leg, the debate over playing conditions adds another layer of intrigue to an already tense European tie. For fans and players alike, the focus now shifts to whether the Giallorossi can overcome both their opponents and the pitch to keep their Conference League dreams alive.