Igor Tudor held a press conference following the match against Parma. Here`s what he had to say:
Asked to explain the performance, Tudor said:
“It was a defeat we didn`t need, but everything is still open. Nothing is lost. In the first half, they won more duels and played at a high level, while we didn`t. They scored the goal. In the second half, we were the only team playing, but we lacked a clean strike, the necessary aggression, and the desire to score. Parma is currently in good form.”
Regarding the strikers` difficulties in scoring, he commented:
“I work and make selections every week, trying to help everyone improve. We`ve had a good month of work. Today we tried with the two strikers and Nico; we expected more. Fortunately, we play again in just four days.”
On the performance of the substitutes, Tudor stated:
“Today the players who came on did well. When you spend so much time near the goal, you must score. In the second half, based on chances, we deserved a draw. We must accept the result and learn from it. We move on.”
Asked if he would reconsider the initial formation, he replied:
“You choose how to play based on the team`s characteristics. If you can`t implement what you planned, you`re proven wrong. We had some physical issues during the week, so this setup made sense. Today`s result isn`t solely the responsibility of the three attackers. I can`t say we came here and Parma dominated us. In the second half, we pushed hard but couldn`t score. When you don`t score, everything looks bleak, but we need to analyze it with clarity.”
Addressing the goalless run for Vlahovic and Kolo Muani, he said:
“I`m not worried. I`m happy to coach them; they are strong players. These periods happen. Every player is part of the group. I don`t like discussing individuals; analyses are made, but I`m never worried – always focused on the task. That`s a coach`s job: to bring out the best in the players and help them. We want the strikers to score, but you have to accept moments like this.”
Asked about his concern regarding the current league standings, Tudor replied:
“No, actually I find it stimulating. Building the team`s mentality and consistently performing with the same intensity for ninety minutes takes time.”
On areas where the team needs to improve, Tudor emphasized:
“Definitely mentally. We are a team that feels the mental pressure; you can see it in the dressing room. We can improve in aggression, show more `Italianness` in our play – fighting, battling, and conceding nothing to opponents. If you don`t concede goals, you don`t make mistakes.”