Parma President Tommaso Ghirardi has explained his change of heart and also why perhaps his club are tense at the start of the season.
The Ducali received a boost last midweek with the owner’s confirmation that he will stay on, having previously indicated in the summer his intention to walk away.
Parma President Tommaso Ghirardi has explained his change of heart and also why perhaps his club are tense at the start of the season.
The Ducali received a boost last midweek with the owner’s confirmation that he will stay on, having previously indicated in the summer his intention to walk away.
That was after Torino took Parma's place in the Europa League at end of last season after the Gialloblu failed to obtain a UEFA licence for the competition due to a financial irregularity.
“I've returned for the love of sport and of this club,” Ghirardi has told Radio Anch'Io Lo Sport.
“If I hadn't returned, Parma may have closed its doors because the local entrepreneurs have never been interested.
“Are expectations too high at the club? The injustice of last summer has been the real problem.
“Parma had an outstanding season last year, deserving Europe. This happens when all the components are working well.
“This year, we restart with a very strong bitterness and overcoming it won't be easy. Above all, for the team.”
Refereeing controversies marred yesterday's defeat to Milan, with Ducali Coach Roberto Donadoni furious at the sending off of Felipe in particular.
“I saw things which don't sit well, but I stayed quiet. In fact, I heard in astonishment the complaints of Donadoni, who usually is always positive.
“Yesterday, perhaps the tension was still high because of the wrong of the Europe League.
“We have to rediscover our tranquillity. Certainly, there were some doubtful episodes, with the expulsion of Felipe which didn't exist.”