Torino President Urbano Cairo hails new coach Marco Giampaolo, admits he made a ‘mistake’ blocking Nicolas Nkoulou and insists his tenure has been positive.
Giampaolo was presented in a press conference this afternoon, in which Cairo also spoke.
“I had already wanted Giampaolo in 2007, but it wasn’t possible at the time, so we finally got to make it happen,” said the President.
“He’s a real teacher of football, someone who can help develop the talent of his players.”
Torino President Urbano Cairo hails new coach Marco Giampaolo, admits he made a ‘mistake’ blocking Nicolas Nkoulou and insists his tenure has been positive.
Giampaolo was presented in a press conference this afternoon, in which Cairo also spoke.
“I had already wanted Giampaolo in 2007, but it wasn’t possible at the time, so we finally got to make it happen,” said the President.
“He’s a real teacher of football, someone who can help develop the talent of his players.”
After finishing just above the relegation zone, Toro fans were hoping Cairo would sell the club to new investors.
“I’d give my tenure seven out of 10, because in 15 years, I think we only ever had three negative seasons, some very good and others positive. I wanted more, but when I first arrived here, the club was a pile of rubble.
“Not many people can afford to run at a loss of €20m per year, but I didn’t take Torino to make money. I have not received any contact for a potential sale.”
Cairo admits he made huge mistakes last season, when Toro went from the Europa League preliminary rounds to barely avoiding the drop.
“I apologised to Nkoulou, because he asked to leave and it was wrong of me to try to keep him like that, as he was basically crucified in the media. I would be happy to keep him again, but if anyone asks to go, I promise we will evaluate the situation.
“My objective is not to sell star names, but to keep motivated players.”