Spezia coach Vincenzo Italiano admits his debutants immediately realised the ‘difference in quality’ between Serie A and B after losing 4-1 to Sassuolo.
It was ultimately a 4-1 result for the Neroverdi, but could’ve been a far heavier scoreline, as Francesco Caputo had three goals disallowed by VAR.
Spezia coach Vincenzo Italiano admits his debutants immediately realised the ‘difference in quality’ between Serie A and B after losing 4-1 to Sassuolo.
It was ultimately a 4-1 result for the Neroverdi, but could’ve been a far heavier scoreline, as Francesco Caputo had three goals disallowed by VAR.
“There were difficulties and we saw them, even if we held out well for an hour,” Italiano told DAZN after fielding seven Serie A debutants in the starting XI.
“We’ve got to improve our fitness levels too, as those were dropping towards the end. There were some positives, though, and we’re still at an early stage with many new players and only 15 days of training. It’s a tough road, but we mustn’t get downhearted, as we believe in our qualities.
“It’s a pity we conceded some avoidable goals, but it helps as a learning experience. I knew even as a player the difference was in Serie B, there are three quality players and eight hard workers, whereas in Serie A it’s the opposite. You need concentration in Serie A and we’re realising that now.”
To make matters more complicated, this was Spezia’s first ever Serie A match, but played 300km away in Cesena because the Stadio Picco needs restructuring work.
“Having to travel three hours to get here means it’s more of an away fixture than a home one. We feel more protected at our stadium, but we’re going to have to adapt.”