Sampdoria vice-president Antonio Romei insists talk of the club’s demise is exaggerated, as even after relegation to Serie B, they have a ‘sustainable restructuring programme.’
The Blucerchiati won the Scudetto in 1991, but after amassing only 17 points in 34 rounds this season, they are mathematically relegated with four games to spare.
“It is painful and very difficult. We are all sad and there was a moving moment between the coach and his lads, so we need to rebuild from that,” Romei told Sky Sport Italia.
The biggest concern now is whether Sampdoria will be able to register for the 2023-24 Serie B season, as if their financial problems are not resolved, they will be declared bankrupt and forced to start again from Serie D.
“Now we have the most important match, the decisive one. I speak on behalf of the entire Board of Directors, we are working hard to find a solution and will do everything possible, because Sampdoria deserve to keep going. The next few days will be very important.
“Sampdoria are part of Calcio heritage and cannot start again from lower than Serie B. We have a sustainable restructuring programme that has been examined by the financial advisors, so perhaps the news that has been circulating is a bit too alarming.
“We have a clear idea of the situation, now we are trying to get it done as soon as possible.”
Sampdoria are still owned by Massimo Ferrero, who was forced to step down as President after he was arrested for fraudulent bankruptcy and financial irregularities of his other business interests.
Ferrero has rejected at least one offer from American investors Merlyn to buy the Italian club and maintains he can keep the Blucerchiati afloat.
However, the current Board of Directors is working separately to find solutions.
“We have a restructuring plan that is ready to be deposited with the tribunal. We must approach creditors and potential investors, try to find help and a way to settle the debts so we can move forward. That is the main job, we are talking above all to the banks,” added Romei.
“This has been the situation since the start of this long, tiring and terrible season. It’s not a matter of being optimistic or pessimistic, we just have to give it our all.
“It is not true that Sampdoria are a club who own nothing and some news stories may well have frightened off potential investors. Now the situation is clear, the club has undergone a financial vivisection.”