Spalletti: "Heart, skill and results are needed"

APPIANOGENTILE - On the eve of our match vs. Parma, LucianoSpalletti today had this to say at the Suning Training Centre when speaking to the press. He began by discussing the team’s current form:

“The important thing tomorrow is that we put in a performance that helps us get going again. I expect us to head out there and fight for a result, showing some of the best things that we’ve done over the past 18 months. Tactical manoeuvres can be modified but in matches like this, you need to demonstrate not just tactical and technical awareness, but also heart. This makes the difference. The players need to bring humility and pride to the shirt that they’re wearing, while we all need to assume our responsibilities. There is work to be done with both conviction and urgency.”

As for the team’s recovery, Spalletti addressed how the team can improve: “The team must do many different things, and not just one. We must fight for every ball and for the result against whoever we’re playing. We need to get out of this current spell. The team can win matches if they show the necessary mental strength and give their all. We must put in an important performance, doing well in all aspects of the game. Whether be running, tackling or in physical battles.”

He also discussed the recovery times of both Keita and Borja Valero: “Keita will not be available tomorrow, but rather as of our next match. He still needs a few days to fully recover. It takes a bit of time to get back to it when you’ve been out, however, he has some of the qualities that the team is currently lacking. Borja Valero isn’t available, he’s struggling with an injury that we thought wasn’t as bad as it is. There are still further evaluations to be made because there is ongoing inflammation.”

The tactician also stressed that any Nerazzurri improvement must be a team effort: “Icardi is a strong player but if things aren't working for the team, then it can't be fixed by individual talent or by a striker. Everyone can give their own contribution, but we must all improve together. As for Nainggolan, I saw improvements from him during our last game and in training. He's one of the players that I expect a big reaction from because he can give something important to this team.”

To conclude, Spalletti also expressed his condolences following the passing of Emiliano Sala, while he also had a message for Manuel Bortuzzzo: “We remain close to the families of both Manuel Bortuzzo and Emiliano Sala because in moments like this there are things that shouldn’t happen that make you feel helpless. We want to send a big hug to both families.”