Rimini FC is currently navigating a highly challenging period. Following yesterday`s deferment, the club has incurred an additional point deduction, bringing the total penalty to a staggering -12 points. This significantly increases the gap that Coach Filippo D`Alesio`s team must overcome. Despite the severity of the situation, which effectively halves the original deficit in a sense, the team remains resolute and utterly unwilling to surrender.
“The deferral momentarily shifted our focus from our daily work,” explained Coach D`Alesio in an exclusive interview with TuttoMercatoWeb.com. “We had a discussion and reminded ourselves that the league table is misleading; without these penalties, we would have 7 points, just like Livorno. This is a crucial point to remember, as is the fact that we are improving daily and consistently performing better. We started late, team cohesion was delayed, and our physical condition wasn`t at its peak initially. However, now all the players are on the same level, operating within a precise tactical identity. We are at 80% of our potential, a situation that should push us to strive for even greater improvement. And if unfavorable news should arrive from outside, it will only motivate us to go even further and give more.”
Lessons from Lucchese: A Path to the Play-offs?
The recent history of Lucchese offers a glimmer of hope, demonstrating that reaching the play-offs, even while burdened by penalties, is indeed achievable.
“Yes,” acknowledged D`Alesio, “although Lucchese`s situation last year was different. They encountered difficulties after the first half of the season, by which point they were already cohesive, compact, and had accumulated a substantial number of points. We, however, found ourselves in a critical situation right from the outset. The initial fear was that we wouldn`t be a complete team, but we quickly transformed into a cohesive unit, accelerating all our processes.”
Maintaining Focus Amidst Adversity
Keeping the team`s concentration solely on the field is a constant challenge. D`Alesio discussed how this unique environment impacts his daily coaching responsibilities.
“The team is mature and highly receptive, which provides me with a significant boost of self-esteem,” he affirmed. “I accepted this role because I felt an inner conviction that I could be an impactful head coach. Circumstance has dictated this challenging situation, which means I will grow faster and gain certain essential insights sooner, even for achieving my personal objectives. But always with the utmost humility.”
Embracing Risk and Growth
The inherent risk of potential failure is undeniable in such circumstances, as football often offers little forgiveness.
“Yes, the risk is present,” D`Alesio agreed, “but there are also numerous positive aspects that can be amplified. Hard work, courage, and taking responsibility to navigate this situation effectively are crucial for growth. Fear, in its general sense, either paralyzes you or heightens your senses; for me, it has undeniably been the latter.”
Short-Term Ambitions: Competing on Equal Terms
When questioned about his immediate expectations, D`Alesio outlined a clear objective for Rimini FC.
“My sole expectation is for us to reach 100% of our capabilities,” he stated emphatically. “We need to hold our ground for another 2-3 games, and then we will be able to compete on equal terms with every opponent. This is the only thought that should occupy our minds, for the good of Rimini, for the players, the staff, and all the crucial support figures like our team manager and kit man.”
