Genoa manager Alberto Gilardino expressed his delight with his team’s performance following their 2-2 draw against Bologna at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. The result ended a run of negative results for the Grifone, and Gilardino was particularly impressed with the character shown by his players.
“What effort and emotion the boys gave me,” Gilardino began. “After conceding the second goal, perhaps in our best moment, it was possible not to find a favorable episode. The boys instead were great because we maintained awareness. We were good at staying in the game, today there was a great reaction from everyone.”
The coach highlighted the tactical adjustments he had to make due to injuries and player availability: “I had to adapt players to roles that weren’t theirs, but I had great availability. Vasquez returned yesterday from the national team, I risked Frendrup, I’m very happy for Pinamonti. This is where we must start again.”
Gilardino was particularly effusive in his praise for Andrea Pinamonti, who scored both goals for Genoa: “It’s vital lifeblood for strikers. He worked hard and when two goals like that come, they are very important.”
Regarding the team’s tactical shift to a 4-4-2 formation, Gilardino explained: “We had the courage to risk it, I tried everything. It gave us reason today, but balance is needed. We know how to play with three, but when we decide to change during the game or from the start, it’s important.”
When asked about potential reinforcements, including rumors of Mario Balotelli joining the team, Gilardino remained focused on the current squad: “Let’s enjoy Andrea and this point. I know Mario, I played with him, I know his technical qualities. We will make evaluations in this sense, we will have to evaluate the period of unavailable players and when they will return.”
The manager concluded by praising goalkeeper Leali’s performance: “He had an important game, he’s an extraordinary guy. He had a great game and I’m happy for him.”
