Torino goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic has been forced to leave the Serbia national team camp due to a knee injury, adding to the woes of Torino manager Paolo Vanoli. This setback comes on the heels of injuries to key players Ivan Ilic and Duvan Zapata, further complicating the team’s situation.
Pazza Di Fanata report how Torino had enjoyed a strong start to the season, accumulating 11 points in their first five matches. Notable victories included a home win against Atalanta and away triumphs at Venezia and Verona. However, their momentum has been halted by recent back-to-back 3-2 defeats against Lazio and Inter.
The team’s defensive performance has declined, conceding 8 goals in their last three matches after allowing only 3 in their first four. This brings their total to 11 goals conceded in seven Serie A matches. Additionally, Torino was eliminated from the Coppa Italia in the third round following a 2-1 loss to Empoli.
Despite these challenges, new captain Duvan Zapata has been a bright spot, scoring 3 goals already this season. New arrivals Adams and Saul Coco have also made significant contributions, with Adams notching 3 goals and 1 assist, while Coco has scored twice.
Zapata’s injury, sustained in the 84th minute of the recent match against Inter, appears to be serious. The striker was stretchered off after attempting a change of direction during a sprint.
Regarding Milinkovic-Savic, the Serbian Football Federation released a statement on their X profile: “Vanja Milinković-Savić responded to the call of Coach Dragan Stojković, but unfortunately, due to a knee injury, he will not be able to participate in the matches against Switzerland and Spain. The Torino and Serbian national team goalkeeper came to the FSS Sports Center in Stara Pazova, greeted his teammates and coaching staff, and wished them good luck for the upcoming challenges.”
