A breath of fresh air, a demand for grit, and a quest for redemption. Modena FC embarks on a new chapter in Serie B, spearheaded by head coach Andrea Sottil, a man known for his robust approach and a hunger for success. This isn`t just a coaching change; it`s a declaration of intent for a club and a manager both seeking to prove their mettle.
A Mutual Pact of Redemption
The sentiment was clear: “We chose each other.” These were the words of Andrea Sottil on his inaugural day in Modena, signaling a partnership born out of shared ambition and a mutual need for resurgence. Modena FC, despite maintaining its Serie B status for three consecutive seasons, has found itself in a frustrating plateau, craving a significant climb up the league table. On the other side of the coin, Sottil arrives eager to erase the memory of his recent dismissals from Udinese and Sampdoria, viewing Modena as the ideal ground for a fresh start and a project built from the ground up.
This convergence of desires creates an intriguing narrative. Both coach and club are hungry, not just for improvement, but for a profound redemption that transcends mere league positions. It`s a calculated gamble, but one infused with genuine enthusiasm and the promise of a revitalized approach.
President Rivetti`s Vision: Echoes of the Toro Spirit
President Carlo Rivetti articulated the club`s aspirations with equal clarity, calling for “new air” to sweep through the squad. This isn`t just a superficial change; it signifies a deep, structural overhaul, with the notable exception of the attacking contingent – Mendes, Defrel, Caso, and Gliozzi – who, despite a paltry combined total of 17 goals last season, are being given a chance to redeem themselves. Perhaps Rivetti believes in the transformative power of “new air” for everyone, or perhaps the transfer market isn`t as cooperative as one might wish.
Rivetti`s presentation of his fourth coach in just two years was marked by a unique historical resonance. He drew parallels between his own roots, specifically his grandfather, Count Enrico Marone Cinzano, a former Torino president who oversaw the construction of the iconic Filadelfia stadium, and Sottil`s own Granata origins, having been born in Venaria Reale 51 years ago. “I would like the spirit of Toro to transfer to Modena,” Rivetti declared, a sentiment that will be immediately put to the test as Modena faces Torino in the first round of the Coppa Italia. One can only hope Modena inherits Torino`s storied passion and fighting spirit, rather than any other historical unfortunate tendencies.
The Sottil Mandate: Aggression, Sacrifice, and `Bad Boys`
Andrea Sottil left no doubt about the identity his Modena team will forge. “I arrive in a land of great workers. I am a worker,” he asserted, laying the groundwork for a philosophy rooted in relentless effort. His preferred 3-5-2 formation is designed to facilitate an aggressive, high-intensity brand of football. The objective is unambiguous: “Our Braglia must become a fortress.” This isn`t just a plea for home advantage; it`s a rallying cry to reignite the passion of the Modenese faithful, a fanbase described as discerning but fiercely loyal.
Sottil`s vision extends beyond tactics; it’s about character. “My Modena will sweat. At the base of everything there must be sacrifice, resilience to try to impose ourselves at home and away.” He`s actively seeking players with personality, even admitting, “I like to coach bad boys, hungry ones; good guys don`t win much.” It’s a refreshingly blunt assessment, suggesting a preference for grit over gilded talent, for players who embody “garra” – a Spanish term for a fierce, competitive spirit – and who are never content with mediocrity. The message is clear: donning the Modena shirt means feeling it, living it, and fighting for every inch.
Strategic Acquisitions: Building a Resilient Core
The transfer market reflects this new ethos. While avoiding direct comparisons to past disappointments – the last Modena squad famously fizzled out of playoff contention amidst fan whistles – Sottil expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts. He highlighted an immediate connection with the Rivetti family, sensing “understanding, competence, and ambition.” The club`s investment in a new training center underscores a long-term vision, which Sottil finds crucial.
The focus for player acquisitions is clear: “players of quality, but also structured, because in modern football it is important.” This implies a blend of technical ability with physical prowess and tactical intelligence. Sporting Director Catellani provided updates on key movements:
- Palumbo: Negotiations continue with Palermo, exploring options with or without player exchanges.
- Di Mariano: A player of clear interest.
- Defense: Already bolstered with Dellavalle, Nieling, Adorni, Pergreffi, Cauz, and Tonoli, suggesting a solid foundation.
- Midfield/Wing: An external winger and a central midfielder are still sought.
- Departures: Bozhanaj has moved to Carrarese on loan.
- Arrivals: Niklas Pyyhtia, a Finnish prospect born in 2003, joins on loan from Bologna after a stint at Südtirol.
Meanwhile, Michele Troiano, formerly an assistant, will join Igor Tudor`s staff at Juventus, a testament to the club`s development of its own personnel even as it rebuilds on the field.
The Road Ahead: Sweat and Anticipation
The new era at Modena kicks off with immediate practical steps: an afternoon training session open to the public at Zelocchi, followed by a full retreat in Fanano starting this Saturday. This early immersion is critical for Sottil to instill his aggressive philosophy and for the players to bond under the new demanding regime.
Modena FC stands at a pivotal juncture. With Andrea Sottil at the helm, promising a blend of hard work, tactical discipline, and a healthy dose of footballing aggression, the club aims to shed its recent stagnation and embark on a genuine ascent in Serie B. The “new air” is blowing, and the expectation is that it will carry Modena far beyond mere survival, transforming them into a formidable force in the Italian football landscape.