Henrikh Mkhitaryan seals Roma win over Sampdoria

PanARMENIAN.Net - Roma boss José Mourinho praised his team’s focus after they extended their league unbeaten after beating Sampdoria 1-0.

Armenian midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s 27th minute goal was enough to sink Marco Giampaolo’s side, who presented very little attacking threat, Roma Press reports.

“It was a tough game,” Jose Mourinho said to DAZN during his post match interview.

“Giampaolo’s team’s are organised and have their philosophy. But the culture in Rome is that you’re in heaven if you win the Derby and it’s disaster if you don’t–thankfully we managed to keep our feet on the ground.”

He added, “As for our goal, if it had been any other manager there’d be talks about what beautiful football it was building from the back but since it’s me, it’s probably tough to admit.”

“But I liked how we managed the second half. Again, I would’ve liked another goal but it’s an important win for us.”

The Special One was also asked about the future of Mkhitaryan, who has experienced a rebirth under him this season.

“He’s having a great season. I want Miki to stay here and he wants to, too. The club and Pinto also want him to remain here. Mino Raiola loves his players so it should be fine.”

After calling it quits with the Armenian national team, Mkhitaryan is now fully focused on his club career, and according to Italian media reports Roma are conducting contract extension negotiations with him. The veteran attacker wants to continue playing at a high level and the consistency of his performances under Jose Mourinho has given Roma a reason to initiate talks regarding a contract extension for the player whose current contract is set to expire in June.