Davide Ballardini believes Genoa can feel proud of the performance after pushing Juventus to extra time in the Coppa Italia.
The Grifone fought back from 2-0 down and capitulated 3-2 in extra time to a Hamza Rafia strike.
Davide Ballardini believes Genoa can feel proud of the performance after pushing Juventus to extra time in the Coppa Italia.
The Grifone fought back from 2-0 down and capitulated 3-2 in extra time to a Hamza Rafia strike.
“Apart from the opening 20 minutes, when we were too timid, the team improved in its performance, its pressing, got a real foothold in the game, so we keep the performance, even if the result ultimately didn’t go our way,” the coach told RAI Sport.
“We know that we have a group of very professional lads who work daily to improve. Tonight was confirmation of their quality and mentality, so it sends a good signal.”
Genoa have brought in Kevin Strootman on loan from Olympique Marseille.
“He is highly-motivated and in good shape. We know Serie A is extraordinarily complicated and difficult, so we need all the help and experience we can get.”
The whole squad seems to have been revitalised since Ballardini took over from Rolando Maran.
“When you are a coach, you bring your personality and ideas to the daily work in training. That is all you can do, realistically.
“I present myself, I have some clear ideas and they must help to get the best out of the players at my disposal.”