Torino manager Paolo Vanoli held a press conference ahead of his team’s match against Cagliari, addressing several key issues including injuries, tactics, and potential transfers.
Vanoli began by providing an injury update: “We’ve been a bit unlucky. Today Sosa injured himself while kicking. He’s undergoing tests and won’t be available tomorrow due to a lesion. Ilic has also stopped due to a tendon problem. Tameze has a fever but should travel to Cagliari, while we’ve recovered Walukiewicz.”
Regarding the upcoming match, Vanoli stated: “Playing in Cagliari isn’t easy. Nicola is a very good coach who has achieved miraculous survivals. We’ll need to focus on ourselves.”
When asked about Vlasic’s position, the coach replied: “Vlasic is doing very well, he’s an important player for us. I see him as a right midfielder, where I think he can express himself very well and be more effective.”
Addressing the absence of Zapata, Vanoli explained: “Losing a physical presence in the area, a player capable of leading the line alone, means we’ll have to be better at attacking space differently.”
On the topic of team mentality, he emphasized: “If we want to achieve results, we need to become even more of a team. Everyone will have to give something extra.”
Vanoli also provided an update on Schuurs’ recovery: “He’s gone back to have his knee checked by Professor Williams, and we’ve decided it’s better for him to continue his recovery there. His recovery process will still be long.”
Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Vanoli confirmed: “We’ll certainly look for a replacement for Zapata. I’ve said that until January I want to stay with these players because analyzing the players who are free, I haven’t found any that fit our style of play.”
Overall, Vanoli’s comments reflect a focus on overcoming injury challenges, adapting tactics, and planning for future reinforcements as Torino navigates a crucial period in their season.
