The Giallorossi legend has penned a new deal that should
see him end his career with his hometown club, while revealing he is open to a
return to the international fold with Italy
Roma have confirmed that Francesco Totti has signed a
two-year contract extension that will see him remain at Stadio Olimpico until
2016.
The 36-year-old's current deal had been due to expire at
the end of the current season but after lengthy discussions with the capital
club the Giallorossi legend revealed his delight at extending his stay with his
hometown club on Friday.
"I have another two years of responsibilities and
I'm sure we'll achieve some great things together," Totti told reporters
at a press conference.
"I'd like to thank the president for this new
contract. Everyone wanted it to happen, me and the club."
Totti retired from international duty after winning the
World Cup with Italy in 2006 but his form last season - which saw him score 12
goals in 36 Serie A appearances - prompted speculation he could return to the
Azzurri fold.
And though he insists his primary focus remains improving
on last season's sixth place finish with Roma, the Italian admits he would
consider a recall if Cesare Prandelli comes calling.
He added: "Going to the World Cup? My jersey is the
Roma jersey but obviously I remain open to the possibility. We'll see."
Club president James Pallotta was sat beside Totti at the
announcement of his new deal and said his committment to the club was a sign of
progress.
"I'm honoured that Francesco Totti is staying here
and I'd like to toast to a great future for Roma and Francesco," said
Pallotta.
"There's never been any doubt in our minds that
Totti would stay. He's Roma's leader and he'll be here forever.
"I'm pleased with what we've achieved in the last
few months. We're a work in progress and we're forging ahead."
Totti made his Roma debut back in 1992 and has gone on to
win Serie A, the Supercoppa Italiana twice and the Coppa Italia three times in
his 21 years with the club.
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