Torino manager Paolo Vanoli addressed the media ahead of his team’s challenging fixture against Atalanta, touching on several key issues including the recent transfer of Raoul Bellanova and the club’s overall transfer strategy.
Vanoli began by expressing his dissatisfaction with Bellanova’s departure, stating, “I didn’t seek explanations or alibis. When a club sells players without my knowledge, there’s no need to ask for justifications. I disagree with this sale, but I hold my head high and move forward.” He emphasized the team’s resilience, noting that they have already shifted their focus to the upcoming match against Atalanta.
Regarding new signing Borna Sosa, Vanoli mentioned, “He’s not yet at 100%, but he can certainly help us. Everything happened in a flash.” The manager expressed confidence in his ability to overcome challenges, referencing past experiences and urging his players not to use recent events as excuses.
Vanoli also addressed his relationship with the club’s management, emphasizing his dislike for mediocrity. “I don’t like mediocrity. When I work, there are difficulties, but as I told the president, he inquired about who I was, and I did the same. Mediocrity in my work bothers me. I told the members of this club to have more courage,” he stated.
On the topic of transfers, Vanoli expressed hope for fulfilling his requests in the remaining six days of the transfer window. He mentioned trusting the sporting director’s judgment on potential signings like Pedersen and reiterated his desire for four attackers to support his preferred two-striker system.
The manager praised the growth of midfielder Samuele Ricci and acknowledged the challenge of facing Atalanta, whom he considers “the strongest team in Italy,” complimenting their coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Concluding the press conference, Vanoli expressed pride in his work over the past month and the passion he has brought to the role, while distancing himself from matters beyond his control.
