During his presentation press conference in Palermo, coach Pippo Inzaghi expressed profound gratitude for his new opportunity. He thanked Pisa, a team he dedicated his heart to and with whom he achieved historic promotion to Serie A last season, along with their fantastic fanbase. He explained that the decision to leave Pisa stemmed from the realization that “something wasn`t going right,” and that both he and the club acted for the common good. Inzaghi then revealed that the call from Palermo rekindled his enthusiasm, to the point of not sleeping the previous night. He described the warm welcome from approximately 2000 fans outside the Barbera stadium as “unexpected and undeserved,” emphasizing that he had not yet done anything to merit such affection.
Future Prospects and Team Ethos
Inzaghi then discussed the upcoming season, emphasizing that “no one will give us anything for free.” He stated that the team has a dream, but they will have to earn it to bring Palermo, a “great football capital,” back to its rightful place. Aware of the significant responsibility, the coach also highlighted the advantage provided by the club and the fans. He predicted a “very tough and difficult season, more complicated than last year,” but expressed confidence in his “strong squad” and “Champions League-level crowd,” declaring he fears nothing. He insisted on the importance of putting individualism aside, because “the keyword will be `us`.” Inzaghi also revealed that the club has provided him with all the requested support, and that during training camp, he will carefully assess the physical condition of the players, with the firm rule that “whoever runs little stays out” and that he will show no favoritism.
Relationship with Management and Transfer Market Insights
Regarding his relationship with the management, Inzaghi stated that he has known Gardini and Osti for a long time, making any further negotiation unnecessary. He admitted that after concluding his tenure with Pisa, his hope was to join Palermo, clarifying that he didn`t have to choose between the two clubs. On the transfer market front, Inzaghi acknowledged that forwards like Brunori and Pohjanpalo are very strong, but stressed that “they alone are not enough to win.” He reiterated the need to “become a team again and fight for every ball,” as victory is a collective effort. He added that, having just arrived, he plans to speak with the players, but that the pre-season training camp will be crucial for intense work on various aspects, particularly physical conditioning, as “in Serie B, you have to run.”
Tactical Approach and Player Utilization
Inzaghi stated that his tactical approach will be based on the available players, anticipating that he will not replicate the same playing style adopted in Pisa due to the squad`s different characteristics. He expressed his philosophy that “a good coach should do as little damage as possible,” and since “no one invented football,” his goal will be to field a team that plays well. While acknowledging the successes achieved with Pisa`s system, he explained that in Palermo, the attack will be structured with two attacking midfielders and one central striker, while in defense, they can opt for either a three-man or four-man backline. He concluded by highlighting the presence of important midfielders and the need to identify the formation that best enhances their qualities.
Message to Gennaro Gattuso
Finally, Inzaghi spoke about his former teammate at Milan and with the national team, Gennaro Gattuso, who was recently appointed as a head coach. He revealed that they had spoken and that he is “very happy for him,” recalling the many victories they shared. He expressed confidence that Gattuso “can bring serenity and a desire to do well,” hoping that “Italy can go to the World Cup.”
