Despite this, Júlio Sérgio was preferred by new head coach Claudio Ranieri in his first game in-charge in a 2–1 away win at Siena on 13 September.

Strong performances ensured Julio Sérgio more regular football and ultimately allowed him to become the new first choice keeper for the Giallorossi.

Roma was losing 1–0 before the penalty, and Júlio Sérgio's save was defined by head coach Claudio Ranieri as the turning point of the game.

He shortly returned to first choice in the penultimate match before the winter break, as Júlio Sérgio recovered in time but Benassi did not.

Júlio Sérgio returned to Roma in July 2012 and refused to leave the club; as such, he was omitted from the first-team squad by manager Zdeněk Zeman.