Genoa manager Alberto Gilardino spoke to the press ahead of his team’s upcoming match against Como. He began by discussing a visit from club president Alberto Zangrillo, saying: “The president came to visit us today and gave a beautiful speech to the team, to us and to the technical staff. It was an emotional speech, words from a very intelligent president and person, that make you think and reflect. He spoke of emotions, passion and sacrifice. This is the DNA of this team. I think this is what we must maintain over time.”
Regarding the match against Como, Gilardino stated: “It will be a complicated match because of the opponent we face. Como maintains great ball possession in every game, they played a great match against Napoli. They are a team with a precise DNA, a difficult team to face. We know what kind of game we need to play. We must be in the game and show sacrifice and quality.”
On striker Andrea Pinamonti, the coach added: “He’s a strong player. A player who at this moment is growing in terms of condition and awareness. Regardless of the goals scored so far, he works for the team and sacrifices himself. He’s a player I wanted and he’s proving to be very important in the team’s economy.”
Gilardino also provided an update on injuries: “We will play tomorrow’s match with the same squad. We hope to recover some players during the break. Tomorrow will be the third game in a week. The mental aspect will be decisive, the recovery of mental energy will be indispensable.”
Finally, the Genoa manager commented on new signing Mario Balotelli: “Mario is continuing his work path and today, after preparing for the match, he stayed to do something extra. He needs to put fuel in his body, but he’s happy and willing. We must neither put pressure on him nor give him any, but accompany him in this experience, trying to make it as easy as possible for him.”
