New Sampdoria coach Andrea Pirlo touched on the evolving nature of the top teams in Serie A and his enthusiasm for his new role in Liguria.
The 44-year-old Italian coach left Fatih Karagumruk after a year back in May, deciding to return to Italy after an important experience abroad.
The former midfielder has now signed on with the newly relegated Sampdoria, penning a two-year contract as he works to guide them back up to the Italian topflight.
Speaking on page 22 of today’s Gazzetta dello Sport, Pirlo first discussed how he feels in his new role at Sampdoria.
“There is great enthusiasm. We’re aware that we represent a great club, we cannot make mistakes or disappoint the fans’ expectations.”
He was asked how he’s handling the pressure on the Ligurian coast.
“The coaches are all under pressure, because they are the first to leave in case things don’t go well. I’ve always liked responsibilities, I’ve always taken them with serenity, and I still do, knowing I’m at a well-organized club, a Champions League structure was created here.”
The 44-year-old touched on how Sampdoria are considered favourites for promotion in Serie B next season.
“It happens because we’ve always been in Serie A, but we need time, we mustn’t deceive anyone. A difficult path awaits us, but that can be the goal.”
He gave his thoughts on the work of Saudi Arabian clubs in the summer transfer window.
“A new market has opened up, as happened a few years ago in China. Football like life is this, if there are opportunities someone takes them.
“There is the Italian league, the English one and there will be the Arab league. Maybe it will become the best in the world…”
Finally, Pirlo discussed the comings and goings in Serie A and what lays ahead next season.
“Napoli did an extraordinary thing, but I had seen Spalletti in Turkey, during the season break, and they were already projected to go all the way. We have to see what their rivals will do.
“Time will be needed for the new Juventus, in Milan Pioli has greater responsibilities and in the end I think they will miss Maldini, because he wasn’t only a special person for the players, but precisely as a man, because Maldini is always Maldini.”