Palermo, Inzaghi inspires the team: "We'll be proud to face City. I want to see people fighting."

On the eve of the thrilling match against Manchester City, Pippo Inzaghi spoke at a press conference with his usual mix of enthusiasm and realism. The Palermo coach emphasized the importance of experiencing a night of this caliber, reiterating his desire to see a combative team on the pitch, worthy of the occasion.

The emotion of the eve

"Given the passion there is in Palermo, I don't need tomorrow's match," Inzaghi began. "It will be a great day of sport, and we're honored to play in this prestigious match that the city deserves. We're playing against aliens, but we have to try to put in a good performance and repay the fans' affection. I want to see people fighting for every ball and starting to understand what it means to wear this jersey."

The coach also spoke about the atmosphere expected at the Barbera: "You have to know how to dream. Tomorrow I know what seeing this stadium will mean for us. I know how many people will be there and the expected choreography. If we're good, 35,000 will come, even in the league."

Training and absentees

Regarding the unavailable players, Inzaghi clarified: "Magnani has received permission from the club and will not be available, as will Di Francesco." Ahead of the match against Cremonese, he's already planning changes: "Whoever plays tomorrow will not be available in Cremona; I'll change five or six players. I want to get to the start of the season with 17-18 players ready." On the left flank, the coach explained: "We have a master in Augello. Gyasi can also fill that role if needed."

Young people and their mentality

Inzaghi reiterated his faith in the younger players: "I think they're staying, they're strong, and they have a lot to learn. I don't favor anyone: whoever helps us win plays. They can grow here and give us a big hand. There have been no fines, delays, or complaints: they're all very eager. Even the new players have brought the right mentality." Regarding his relationship with the team, he added: "I try to be myself as much as possible. I prefer the pure truth to a big lie. If the team is good at accepting the coach's mistakes, we'll make a step forward."

Respect for Guardiola and the technical challenge

Speaking about his opponent, Inzaghi expressed his appreciation: "I really appreciate Guardiola. Playing against these aliens, it won't be easy to do what we want, but we'll try. We're becoming a team: the attackers are the first to defend. This team is the best in Serie B with the ball, but we needed to improve a lot without the ball." Finally, he reflected on the importance of the moment: "When you face one of the best teams in the world, you have reason to be very satisfied and proud. I hope my team shows that something positive is developing. A crowd like this should be an advantage, not a pressure: no one in Serie B has our fans."

Katia Virzì