Genoa manager Alberto Gilardino addressed the media in a pre-match conference ahead of his team’s upcoming fixture against Roma. The coach touched on various topics, including player fitness, team mentality, and the challenges of facing a strong opponent.
Gilardino began by expressing satisfaction with his players’ international performances: “I’m happy that they played, some more than others. I’m pleased that Genoa players had the opportunity to confirm their places in their respective national teams. It’s a fact. The work of these years has enhanced the characteristics of individuals. Credit to this group.”
Regarding injuries and player availability, Gilardino stated: “Ankeye, Messias, Miretti, and Norton-Cuffy will be out. Today we’ll have the last training session where I’ll evaluate some situations.”
The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining the right mentality: “We must forget what happened last year quickly. We’ll have to battle until the last matchdays this year. The points weigh heavily, we know that, and we must be very aware of this type of situation. We’ve talked about it with the players, and they know the importance of every match.”
On facing Roma, Gilardino commented: “We’re talking about a team that was already very strong last season. It’s an incredible team for what they’ve managed to create in this transfer market as well. There’s an awareness of facing a very strong team, but we must maintain a high profile of humility, knowing that we excel in these matches.”
Gilardino also addressed recent comments from the club’s president and sporting director: “For me, the president reflected reality and my thoughts. You can’t make flights of fancy; you have to think game by game. As for the director, like the president, he has every right to express his thoughts. Absolutely respectable.”
Regarding the integration of young players, Gilardino said: “Ahnor, Ekathor, Accornero, and Masini are guys who have been with us since the retreat and are players who certainly have prospects. They are young players, and if they’re good, in my opinion, they should be gradually inserted and played.”
The coach concluded by acknowledging the challenge posed by Roma: “De Rossi is so good, and he has already demonstrated it last season. He has an important team in his hands. I have great awareness of my players and who will be on the field. There’s a desire to know how to suffer, to stay in the game against a team like Roma.”
