Torino’s Matteo Darmian admits Europa League qualification was a dream for his team.
Torino’s Matteo Darmian admits Europa League qualification was a dream for his team.
The Granata enjoyed a highly impressive Serie A season but fell agonisingly short of continental qualification after Alessio Cerci missed a last minute penalty in their final match of the campaign.
Had he converted, it would have been Toro who claimed sixth place instead of Parma, but speaking at an Italian national team Press conference today the 24-year-old said the disappointment should not mask what was still an excellent season.
“We had a great season,” Darmian told reporters. “This was down to the work and the confidence the Coach and the club put in us. We were trying to repay all of it by doing well on the pitch.
“I think that one match [against Fiorentina, when Cerci missed his spot-kick] cannot remove all the good things we did throughout the season. What happened is a shame because we were hoping we could do it right until the final minute.
“For us, Europe was a dream. We hope we can achieve it next year.
“Alessio should not be feeling responsibility, he remains a great player.”
The full-back also answered questions about his future at Stadio Olimpico and whether he was worried that Torino would lose their best players this summer.
“Hearing that other clubs are interested in me is flattering but I only recently renewed my contract with Torino.
“I’m really not worried about losing our best players. But if we do, I would be sorry to lose my teammates.”