Parma CEO Pietro Leonardi said he “will not shake hands” with Torino President Urbano Cairo ahead of tomorrow’s game.
It kicks off in Turin at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
Parma CEO Pietro Leonardi said he “will not shake hands” with Torino President Urbano Cairo ahead of tomorrow’s game.
It kicks off in Turin at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The two clubs took legal action over the summer when Parma qualified for the Europa League, but their spot was handed to Torino because of financial irregularities – an accusation the Ducali contested.
“No, I will not shake anybody’s hand,” Leonardi told Radio Parma. “I consider myself a gentleman and my club is made up of gentlemen.
“I have no intention of saluting Cairo. What will I do if I win? I’ll return home happier, more relieved, but still with the problem in my head.”
Parma are propping up the table after five consecutive defeats and Coach Roberto Donadoni is hanging by a thread.
“We must remember that Donadoni took us into Europe and set some important records. It’s simplistic to suggest it is all Donadoni’s fault: it is everyone’s fault.
“If we really did think to give him two games to turn things around and put the squad on edge, then I say it would’ve been better to take action today. Therefore, as Donadoni is here, it means Parma have the utmost faith in Donadoni.
“We are not going into Serie B,” insisted Leonardi. “There are years when everything goes great and years when it all goes wrong. Football is enjoyable precisely because it gives you joy and suffering. I am accustomed to suffering and we won’t let go.
“Will I leave Parma? People have been saying that for six years and I’m still here. I am too fond of this place and I’m no coward.”
It has also been a deeply unfortunate campaign for injuries, as Jonathan Biabiany is out after failing a Milan medical due to an irregular heartbeat.
“He is going through the process of verifying the problem that emerged in the tests. That does not mean the problem is resolved. The process will only be concluded in November.
“There are good prospects, but as I am not a doctor, I will wait until the necessary examinations have been completed.”