Marco Giampaolo, former coach of Sampdoria, Milan, and Torino, has been officially presented as the new manager of Lecce. He replaces the dismissed Luca Gotti with the aim of lifting the team from their precarious 18th position in Serie A, having amassed only 9 points after 12 rounds.
Giampaolo expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “Two years is a long time, but after an initial break, I resumed working. Work is also mental, simulating being on the field. In the last year, I’ve been working remotely.”
Regarding his tactical approach, Giampaolo emphasized his desire for attractive football: “I want to play football. If I have superior ball possession, it means I have the ball more than the opponent. To play football, you need knowledge and technical qualities, and I believe there are technical qualities in this team.”
When asked about the playing style of Ante Rebic, a player he briefly coached at Milan, Giampaolo said, “How many players do we have in the squad? It shouldn’t be a matter of evaluation where I’ll play him. Everyone must be a resource for the team, Rebic like Krstovic and Burnete.”
On the evolution of football during his absence, Giampaolo noted, “It has changed. Before, there were those who thought of guarding spaces, today we play man-to-man, and there are no more playing systems. We defend one way and attack another.”
Addressing the team’s tactical setup, he said, “The team was built to play in a certain way: four-man defense, three midfielders, two wingers, and a striker. If you want to see it so statically…”
Giampaolo also highlighted the importance of fan support: “It’s crucial. The team should always be encouraged and only whistled if they deserve it. Players are human beings, and unconditional support is determinant.”
When asked to describe himself with one adjective, Giampaolo responded, “I’m looking to reaffirm my football ideas: this team, this club, this environment are giving me an opportunity.”
On the potential role of young player Dorgu, Giampaolo revealed, “I like players who play high with inverted feet, I like players who come to play inside the field.”
Giampaolo concluded by thanking the club: “I want to thank the club for this opportunity. Let’s hope this experience is positive for everyone.”
