Jose Mourinho has taken to life in Rome like a duck to water.
Sure, they did come sixth in the Serie A last year. But they did also win the Europa Conference League and in doing so lifted the club's first piece of silverware in 14 years.
The bond between Mourinho and the fans is strong despite the short time he's been at the club, and you just get the feeling something special could be brewing in Italy's capital right now.
Mourinho's expert overhaul of his inherited squad
One of the key reasons for that feeling of optimism, besides the recent European success, is the new-look Roma side that Mourinho has cunningly formulated behind the scenes this summer.
When Mourinho joined the club in May 2021, the existing squad was an ageing, tired looking group. One that lacked an undertone of quality required to be successful in modern football.
A 35-year-old Edin Dzeko shouldered much of the responsibility up front. Henrik Mkhitaryan - who at this point was way past his best - played a key creative role in the team's attacking hopes.
And many more players held important roles in the team that, to be honest, couldn't quite cut it at the highest level.
Check out the original Roma team which Mourinho inherited just over 12 months ago below.
Credit: Transfermarkt Instagram
In truth, it's not an awful strongest 11 of players but it's hardly anything to write home about.
Gianluca Mancini is a great option in defence. Whilst Leonardo Spinazzola and Lorenzo Pellegrini represent the two other standout members.
However, comparing that team to what it would blossom into 15 months down the line brings some truly eye-opening results...
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The new Roma
It's been a busy summer in Rome, with Mourinho bringing proven quality to the city in the form of Paolo Dybala and Georginio Wijnaldum - two players we know can cut it at the highest level.
He also brought Tammy Abraham to the club last summer, who has since resurrected his career after falling out favour at Chelsea and is now something of a revelation in Italy.
And whilst those three players represent who we feel to be the most significant signings Mourinho has made so far, the incomings didn't stop there and plenty more high-level talent has made its way to the Stadio Olimpico.
So, check out how Roma's new starting 11 could look ahead of the 2022/2023 football season below to evaluate just how far the club has come under his stewardship.
Credit: Transfermarkt Instagram
It really is worlds apart in terms of the quality of the teams. The midfield and attack especially represent, what could quite arguably be, the most formidable force in the Serie A this season.
And within an overall squad value increase of roughly €50 million, it's clear Mourinho has got Roma's sails perfectly tuned to the blustering wind.
A club to keep a very close eye on over the coming months.