Marco Ferrante: "Maximum respect for everyone, fear of no one. In Group G, Ischia will have its say."

The 2025/26 Serie D group lineup has confirmed expectations: Ischia restarts in Group G, the same one that two seasons ago saw them perform above expectations. Between Campania derbies, away games in Sardinia, and a Lazio challenge fraught with technical challenges, the Gialloblù are preparing for a challenging season. General Manager Marco Ferrante, who heads the sporting department alongside Coach Martino, gave a quick assessment of the situation, clearly outlining their priorities and work philosophy.

Director, it's official: you're in Group G of Serie D. Is that what you expected? "Yes, that's what we hoped for, especially for logistical reasons. Group H would have been within our reach, but it would have meant longer and more inconvenient travel. This way, we're staying in a more geographically consistent group. It won't be an easy group: there are four or five top-level teams. But we're happy with the placement."

Who do you see as your main rivals? "Definitely Nocerina and Scafatese: two teams with strong squads and budgets commensurate with the division. Then there are some Roman teams that, while not among the favorites, could pose a problem: low-profile clubs but difficult to face. And watch out for the Sardinian teams: Latte Dolce, who have close ties to Torres, and Monastir, newly promoted but with a solid club behind them. It will be a balanced championship, with two or three teams ahead on paper, but in the end, the pitch will tell the truth."

And how far can Ischia go in this scenario? "Our goal is clear: to keep our feet on the ground and aware of our qualities. We can compete with anyone, but without making any big claims. We know we're still lacking in some areas: I'm working to bring in one or two key additions in the next 72 hours. It would be great to be the surprise package of the group. The motto must be: maximum respect for everyone, fear of no one."

You've already spoken of a cohesive group. What are your impressions after the first week of training camp? "Very positive. I wanted to build a locker room made up of good guys, but also players with character, ready to fight on the pitch. I focused on hungry players, with a desire for revenge, even those coming from lower divisions. It wasn't easy, but we worked within the budget. Coach Martino is a hard worker and a motivator: this week he's put in a lot of work to get the ball rolling. I see a very united group: for me, that's already half the victory. We'll have to earn the other half in the league."

On Monday, you'll face Forio in a friendly. What kind of test will it be? "A test to get to know each other, not a direct confrontation. We'll play three 30-minute halves, as agreed with Coach Sanchez. We're still short three or four players, and we don't have our key striker: we're still a work in progress. But it will be an opportunity to test solutions and give everyone playing time. We have a good relationship with Forio, and on the island, it's always better to be friends than enemies."

Having lived on Ischia for a few weeks, what's your impression of the island? "Ischia is a paradise, a bit like Monte Carlo for a footballer. It's beautiful, the people are welcoming. Right now, with the tourists, there's a special energy, but I think the best part for young people will come in the fall, when the island becomes quieter again: then you can really enjoy it. I'm sure it will be pleasant to experience it in the winter too."

Their official Coppa Italia debut against Paganese is coming up soon. What kind of Ischia will we see? "A humble, compact Ischia, eager to surprise. The goal is to be ready for September 7th, when the championship begins. Until then, we'll work day by day to be competitive on every pitch." From the training camp in early August to their Coppa Italia debut against Paganese, Ischia is gradually building its identity. Ferrante preaches humility and daily work, but between the lines, the belief shines through that this group, if it stays united and focused, can achieve success. Group G presents obstacles and pitfalls, but Ischia seems ready to face them with a fighting spirit, free from inferiority complexes.