Hellas Verona finds itself at a familiar crossroads, having delivered commendable performances without the tangible reward of three points. As they prepare to host Sassuolo, coach Paolo Zanetti`s pre-match press conference painted a picture of a team brimming with desire, battling against the odds, and facing new challenges, notably a fresh injury concern.
The Elusive First Victory: A Balancing Act
Verona`s Serie A campaign has begun with a series of respectable, yet ultimately unsatisfying, results: three draws and two defeats in five games. This puts immense pressure on securing a win, a point Zanetti tackled head-on. In a moment of candid reflection, he mused, «How much do we want to win this match?» quickly answering his own rhetorical question with a resounding emphasis on collective desire. «This is the theme of the day. We all truly want this, we work for it, we do everything to make it happen.»
However, the seasoned coach quickly tempered this ambition with a dose of pragmatism. While acknowledging the team`s strong performances, he understands that good play alone doesn`t guarantee points. «It’s evident to everyone that we’re in good form and haven`t collected what we deserved,» Zanetti observed, «but we`re also aware that this isn`t enough.» The ultimate goal, he clarified, isn`t an «obsession for victory,» but rather an «obsession for performance.» This, he firmly believes, is the bedrock for building stable foundations for a long-term project, especially pertinent for a new squad still finding its rhythm.
Injury Woes and Welcome Returns
The build-up to the Sassuolo clash brings mixed news from the medical bay. While Valentini and Mosquera are set to return, providing much-needed depth and fresh legs, Verona faces a new setback. Midfielder Al-Musrati has sustained a minor adductor lesion, with further evaluations pending. This is an untimely blow, adding to the list that includes Oyegoke (foot injury) and Harroui, who is expected back after the international break. Navigating these absences will undoubtedly test Zanetti`s tactical flexibility and the squad`s overall depth.
Nurturing Young Talent: The Orban and Giovane Conundrum
Much of the press conference conversation revolved around Verona`s young attacking duo, Orban and Giovane, whose promising play has yet to consistently translate into a flurry of goals. Zanetti staunchly defended his protégés, attributing their current goal drought more to their nascent partnership than any inherent lack of chemistry or skill. «If we had scored,» he quipped with a knowing smile, «I don’t think you would be asking these questions.»
He highlighted their raw talent and undeniable hunger—Orban`s drive to shoot, Giovane`s prowess in one-on-ones—but underscored their limited time playing together at this level. «Pinamonti, Berardi, and Laurienté [Sassuolo`s forwards] have been playing together for years; ours for just a month,» he noted, expressing clear optimism for their future output. His message was clear: patience is a virtue, and their contribution extends beyond just goals, encompassing the vital «hunger» and «predisposition» they bring to the team`s overall dynamic.
Pragmatism Over Purity: The Pursuit of Points
When pressed on the eternal footballing dilemma—winning ugly versus losing beautifully—Zanetti didn`t mince words. «Yes, I`m content,» he declared unequivocally, «I’ve never hidden this, and I’m 100% consistent. I like playing well… but without points, I’m not happy.» Reflecting on the struggles of the previous season, he acknowledged the stark reality of professional football: «On the other hand, only points and survival exist. I clearly understand my job and the club`s objectives.»
This pragmatic approach also extends to refereeing decisions. After recent controversies, including a disallowed goal against Roma, Zanetti advocated for Verona`s steadfast philosophy: «Work hard and complain little.» He conceded that errors happen but emphasized focusing on internal improvements rather than dwelling on external factors—a philosophy many would applaud, especially when the stakes are as high as Serie A survival.
The Sassuolo Challenge: Aggression and Awareness
Looking ahead to the immediate challenge, Zanetti acknowledged Sassuolo`s strength, particularly their dangerous counter-attacks spearheaded by established talents. «We need to perform well in all phases,» he stressed, emphasizing the critical need for «the right aggressiveness to deny space to such players.» The message is clear: Verona must impose its game while maintaining acute respect for the opponent`s quality, navigating a tactical tightrope walk where fine details will invariably determine the outcome.
As Hellas Verona steps onto the pitch, the quest for that elusive first win is palpable. It`s a journey marked by the coach`s unwavering belief in his team`s potential, a pragmatic acceptance of football`s often harsh realities, and a collective determination to finally translate promising performances into crucial, tangible points.