New Cagliari boss Rolando Maran wants to “build the team around Nicolò Barella” and hopes to add Darijo Srna to the squad.
The former Chievo Coach was formally appointed today on a contract to June 2020, replacing Diego Lopez, and held his presentation Press conference.
“I am happy to be here, I must thank the club for this opportunity. I won’t deny that it’s been a long time since I was this emotional, as there is so much responsibility on my shoulders and I’ve learned what it means to be in charge of Cagliari.
New Cagliari boss Rolando Maran wants to “build the team around Nicolò Barella” and hopes to add Darijo Srna to the squad.
The former Chievo Coach was formally appointed today on a contract to June 2020, replacing Diego Lopez, and held his presentation Press conference.
“I am happy to be here, I must thank the club for this opportunity. I won’t deny that it’s been a long time since I was this emotional, as there is so much responsibility on my shoulders and I’ve learned what it means to be in charge of Cagliari.
“What you experience here is unique, as there is such enthusiasm, a long-term project and high-level infrastructure. I am not afraid and have the determination to earn the respect of the island.
“I had been linked with this bench other times in the past, but this year I had the chance to accept. I want to bring my experience to the club and the city. There is a lot of work ahead of us.
“My idea of football is to take an attacking approach and believe ourselves to be stronger than the opposition. We’ll certainly lose a few games, but always trying to play our football.
“I want us to win over the fans by trying to overcome our own limitations. I’m happy to have the pressure of passionate fans, because I missed that passion at Chievo.”
Cagliari risked relegation until the final round of the season and are eager to start strong next term to avoid another scare.
Maran has already put his focus on Italy Under-21 international midfielder Barella.
“I want to build the team around Barella, as if we want to be a positive side, then he needs to be there. We discussed the ideas and approach, we don’t want to see a passive team.
“I am intrigued by the idea of building around quality players like Leonardo Pavoletti, Joao Pedro, Artur Ionita and Barella. I am intrigued by this project.”
Meanwhile, director of sport Marcello Carli confirmed they have made an offer to Srna, the 36-year-old Croatia international right-back whose contract with Shakhtar Donetsk is due to expire.
“There’s no point denying the negotiations. It’s an idea, he is a player of character and experience who can bring a great deal to the locker room mentality.
“He came to Cagliari and really likes the city, so now it’s up to him. I think it’ll be clarified in three to four days.”