Genoa president Alberto Zangrillo, has spoken out about the club’s current difficulties, addressing issues ranging from the team’s performance to rumors of a potential sale. In a candid interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zangrillo defended manager Alberto Gilardino and called for unity within the organization.
Regarding the team’s challenging start to the season, Zangrillo stated, “Yes, I expected it because anything can happen in football, and looking at the calendar, I had taken it into account. But I don’t forget that last year we experienced an unexpectedly happy moment, and I think it can be reproduced this season as well. Injuries have affected us.”
When questioned about the club’s transfer strategy, particularly the departures of key players like Gudmundsson and Retegui, Zangrillo clarified his role: “I’ve never had the slightest role in incoming, outgoing, or planning the sporting side. I’m never consulted. But, having said that, I feel responsible, and so if I have to share blame on this issue, I put myself at the front of the line and take the responsibilities that are mine.”
Zangrillo strongly defended manager Alberto Gilardino, whose position has come under scrutiny: “I find it disgraceful and unacceptable that Gilardino is being questioned. I believe in supporting him always, as long as he demonstrates that he has the team on his side and knows how to adapt to necessities. Gilardino has given us very happy moments that have been missing here for many years.”
Addressing the issue of injuries, Zangrillo praised the club’s medical staff and dismissed criticism of the team’s preparation: “We have a first-rate medical sector. Some do-gooders have had fun pointing out two things: first, that the athletic preparation wasn’t adequate, and second, that the intensity of training would facilitate injuries. The head of the trainers is Professor Alessandro Pilati, the best in the business, and I thank him for enduring such nastiness.”
On the topic of the club’s potential sale, Zangrillo clarified: “The sale is a consequence of something that hasn’t happened yet. That is, the change of control of the company. If there had been, as president, I would have had to inform the federal bodies. Our reference shareholder, 777 Partners, has difficulties that have manifested through the sale of three companies in the group. At this moment, there’s a financial advisor who dialogues with our reference partners and who guides the CEO’s action. We’ll see what happens.”
Zangrillo concluded by emphasizing the need for unity and focus within the club: “Through a simple process: looking each other in the eye with sincerity, facing the next commitments with serenity starting from the match with Bologna, growing extraordinary young players like Ekhator and Marcandalli. And then there’s the North Stand: no other club has it, and it’s always present with warmth and passion regardless of categories, presidents, coaches, players.”
