Marco Giampaolo warns Torino are still fragile both mentally and physically after the opening 1-0 loss to Fiorentina. ‘We’re rebuilding self-confidence.’
The new coach began his Granata campaign with a 1-0 defeat at the Stadio Franchi, decided by Gaetano Castrovilli’s tap-in at the back post.
Marco Giampaolo warns Torino are still fragile both mentally and physically after the opening 1-0 loss to Fiorentina. ‘We’re rebuilding self-confidence.’
The new coach began his Granata campaign with a 1-0 defeat at the Stadio Franchi, decided by Gaetano Castrovilli’s tap-in at the back post.
“We had a good first half, as long as there was fuel in the legs, but as the sharpness dropped, we allowed them more in attack. We knew that would happen and we wouldn’t last 95 minutes,” Giampaolo told Sky Sport Italia.
“We are still a work in progress and seeing pre-season friendlies cancelled (due to COVID-19 cases) means we don’t have enough fuel in the tank right now.
“When I have a team that is in good physical shape, then we can consider other options. At this moment, I cannot focus too much on aesthetics, I have to find strength in this squad and help them rebuild their self-confidence after a poor season.
“I told my players they can defend while holding the ball too, but must also learn to handle periods of pressure. That is when being mentally strong makes the difference.
“You need results to increase self-esteem and I believe we can work on that with time.”