Empoli’s head coach, Roberto D’Aversa, addressed the media in a press conference ahead of their upcoming match against Genoa. Reflecting on his team’s performance and goals, D’Aversa emphasized the importance of maintaining high intensity.
“There is great satisfaction from day one,” he stated. “In the last two years, Atalanta has been little troubled, but unfortunately, compliments do not move the standings. We cannot feel satisfied; tomorrow we face a very difficult team that is recovering and has a certain balance and intensity. We need to be as intense as we were in Bergamo, albeit in a different way. What we have done should give us confidence for tomorrow’s match.”
When asked about potential doubts regarding his lineup, particularly in midfield, D’Aversa mentioned that they have been considering various options. “We have made other evaluations and worked on different situations. Fazzini has had an extra week of training, but we must remember he is returning from a long period out. In Bergamo, it wasn’t his ideal match, but it was right to give him minutes. There are always doubts; even today in training I alternated several players in 3-4 positions. I will decide tomorrow.”
D’Aversa highlighted the significance of play on the flanks, stating, “Regardless of their system of play, any area of the pitch can make a difference. We always work based on the characteristics of our opponents and will adjust our behavior when we have the ball. The duels on the wings can be important because they tend to be tight centrally.”
Addressing concerns about his team’s goal-scoring record at home, D’Aversa noted that their attacking duo had been working well together. “They have played similarly in almost all matches. We can start with three strikers, but if they don’t occupy certain zones to interact, it changes little. They have communicated well; at home, we’ve faced strong teams. Esposito has already scored many goals, and Colombo is close to matching his own record in the league. We need to consider how teams approach us; our players are producing significant numbers in terms of goal contributions.”
Regarding potential changes in defense or the inclusion of younger players, he stated, “Numerically we are limited; I must consider the squad as a whole because there can be difficulties. Everyone has shown they can perform well when called upon. I don’t like to dwell on absences; the players are compensating for all challenges. Marianucci was initially set to go out on loan when I arrived, but through daily work, he has changed the hierarchy. It’s crucial that young players don’t feel they’ve already arrived; I have an exceptional group.”
