Parma manager Fabio Pecchia addressed the media in a press conference ahead of their match with Roma, discussing the team’s injury woes and potential transfer market activity. The coach emphasized the importance of constant communication with the club’s management:
“I always talk with the club, regardless of the current situation. The vision for Parma’s present and future is clear. I didn’t expect to lose players for such long periods. With the team built around many young players, it hasn’t been possible to manage the squad as I’d like. The players have had to play a lot and manage pressure. Injuries are somewhat out of our control, but many Serie A teams are facing emergencies at this crucial point in the season. It’s Parma that takes the field, beyond just the young players, and it’s important to take responsibility.”
When asked about the cautious integration of young defender Leoni, who turns 18 today, Pecchia responded:
“I don’t know about that, but now he’s of age, so we can talk about him. This applies to all players, including Giovanni. Introductions must be gradual and considered, and it helps to have the fortune of finding the right moment. Right now, we’re accelerating their integration and experience-building, forced by events but also due to merit.”
Regarding injuries to key players, Pecchia provided updates:
“Estevez’s issue is not serious; he could be back with us next week. As for Bernabé, his return gives me more options, but that doesn’t affect tomorrow’s result.”
Looking ahead to the match against Roma, Pecchia shared his thoughts:
“We need to play great matches and, most importantly, earn points. Tomorrow we face a great team in a beautiful and stimulating environment. They’ve found serenity under Ranieri. I want to see a battling Parma, eager to compete with a team that has a bit of everything – quality, structure, and physical strength.”
When asked about potential tactical changes due to the limited squad, Pecchia said:
“I’m not sure how much drastically changing things would help the players. Whether to maintain our familiar approach and positioning or change completely – I prefer to make decisions judiciously, not spontaneously. The numbers are what they are for some players; it’s fairly easy to guess the lineup today. But what’s important is having spirit, liveliness, and the desire to go for goals.”
On the possibility of switching to a traditional 4-4-2 formation, Pecchia commented:
“I agree with Ranieri on this – the numbers don’t matter, it’s the interpretation that counts. We have particular but quite clear characteristics. We always need to be at our best, both in terms of attention and physically. It could be a solution; we’ve done it before. There will be moments when Roma puts us under pressure, and we’ll need to know how to compact ourselves.”
Finally, regarding the potential impact of Mihaila in the upcoming match, Pecchia concluded:
“I’ve had to manage Valentin, but today he gave me very positive signals. I’m pleased.”
