Parma FC August Update
The dust is beginning to settle now and a rhythm is becoming established with Craig Todd’s authority and ideas coming to light with the performances of his players. With 3 friendlies and 1 competitive game in August it was all systems go.
Furthermore, the arrival of 5 new players whilst the departure of 1 key player looks to changed the dynamics at the Stadio Ennio Tardini.
With pre-season coming to a close it looked all very well for Todd’s Parma side heading into the first game of the season against Torino. Finishing the summers fixtures with 2 wins and a draw against good opposition in Hoffenheim certainly put them in good stead.
The 4-1 victory over Gubbio allowed Fabrizio Miccoli and Javier Saviola to really show what they could do. Twice they combined to net 2 of the 4 for I Crociati.
However, when it came to the first competitive game of the season Todd’s side crumbled in front of their home supporters.
1 –
4
In what resulted in a terrible afternoon for Parma as they slumped to a 4-1defeat at the hands of Torino. Despite the result Parma looked the stronger team however found themselves 2-0 from quick counter attacking football by Torino.
A bullet diving header from loanee Antonio Nocerino just before HT gave hope as Parma went a little more attacking to push for a winner. Sadly, in doing so they left themselves open at the back
again and a third goal on the break was conceded.
Torino wrapped it up on with 10 to go with a 4
th goal from a corner. Todd let his fury be known post-match as he stormed out of the Press Conference. Not the start planned but confidence needs to be retained heading into September that points can be taken.
Parma FC are delighted to announce the arrival of 5 players in the month of August as we look to provide more depth and quality to the team. Notably the main signing will be noted as experienced winger Simone Pepe on a free transfer from Serie A champions Juventus.
Todd had highlighted Simone Pepe as one of his main targets of the summer based on his versatility on either wing. His passion and direct play also attracted the manager. Pepe’s main position will be on the RW, although it is understood he will also provide cover to Cassani at RB. He signs a 2-year deal.
Also joining is experienced winger Albert Riera. Much like Pepe he will play predominately on the wing (LW) but will also provide cover for the LB position. He signs a 1-year deal.
To compete with Javier Saviola, Todd has brought in Emanuel Gigliotti on loan from Boca Juniors for the duration of the season. The tall striker is a proven goal scorer and will be out to prove he can compete in Europe in the hope of earning a permanent deal.
Arriving also is young winger Federico Bernardeschi from ACF Fiorentina. He will provide back-up to the 1st team for the duration of the season.
Completing the incoming transfers is Marco Andreolli on loan from Serie A competitors Inter Milan. The experienced CB joins for the duration of the season. His wages will be covered by Inter Milan whilst Parma will pay a monthly fee to have him on loan.
In outgoings, it is with a heavy heart we announce the departure of winger Jonathan Biabiany who has completed a €13.75million move to Serie A challengers AS Roma. In a deal that was considered to good for Parma FC to turn down due to the current financial position at the club.
We wish Jonathan all the best in the future and thank him for his contribution to Parma. Furthermore we wish him a speedy recovery with his current heart condition.
That concludes August. The next fixture for Parma FC will be against Inter Milan at the San Siro.