Collecchio, 19 October 2023 – Here’s what Head Coach Fabio Pecchia had to say at the Mutti Training Center in Collecchio ahead of Parma’s match against Como:

THE START OF A NEW CYCLE

“Friday’s game is the start of a cycle where we’ll play five matches in just over 20 days. We need to pay very close attention to the small things and details because we’ll be up against a side that are doing well. Como started the season with a four-man backline but found solidity and consistency by switching to a 3-4-2-1. They have very fast, technically-gifted players up front and experienced footballers in the middle of the park. Despite the change in formation, they’re building on Longo’s work last year. As for us, I still need to take a look at Osorio, while Balogh and Circati have completed their first training sessions. Amoran has been working with us in the position of central defence. In what will be a high-tempo game, we need to keep our foot on the accelerator and do so together: this is required if we want to maintain our performance levels.”

THE TEAM’S CONDITION

“Everyone is doing well, including Estévez, who is back working with the group. Camara has done some good work with us these past 7-8 days, while Man, Mihaila and Begić have returned in good condition physically and mentally. We just need to play; we’ve had ten days to mull over the Venezia defeat and need to do something different on Friday. I’m assessing Cyprien and we’ll see what happens, but he won’t be in the matchday squad. Those who are in the best shape physically and mentally and are able to maintain this consistency over several matches will play. Sohm is doing this and we’re all happy with him. Charpentier has been working well and has reintegrated himself into the group. Simon could play in attack, as could Camara or Bernabé; we have options. Whoever plays, we need to have a proactive attitude and the desire to win matches.”

RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS THE CITY

“Having so many fans behind us is a real pleasure but means we have increased responsibility on our shoulders. We have a whole city believing in our work and driving us forward, and we need to keep doing more and doing better.”

BETTING SCANDAL

“Sometimes, negative things happen in football. Many young players, some of whom I’ve worked with, find themselves in a really bad situation. I hope that they come out of this more well-rounded with a view to dealing with life better as footballers but also privately. It’s really saddening to see Fagioli caught up in this. I can only talk from a technical point of view; he’s an extraordinary talent who I worked with in Turin at Juve and in Cremona at Cremonese. That’s what everyone can see. However, it upsets me to see everything that is happening away from the pitch, and I can only hope that he’ll emerge from this stronger.”

A SHIRT FOR THE JOURNALIST GIANCARLO CECI

“A gift that we’re delighted to present to you after reaching such a fantastic milestone (80 years, Ed.).”