Sassuolo-Torino Aquilani urges more cynicism ahead of clash
Alberto Aquilani, the black‑green coach, outlined Sassuolo’s challenge against Torino, reviewing the market, injuries, youth and the new striker, noting that Sebastiano Esposito can operate as a number 9 or a number 10. The side prepares for the second Serie A matchday after the defeat to Atalanta.
Tactical focus on cynicism
Il tecnico highlighted the need for a more cynical approach after the loss, saying, “We made errors in front of the opponent’s goal and in our own area and that condemned the result. We must be more cynical, more optimistic when we are there and think more negatively when the situation is against us in our area.”
He also stressed that the team’s path remains correct and that the objective is to add greater concreteness to a side that produced 22 attempts in Bergamo. “If you go to Bergamo and shoot that many times with these players, it’s hard to lose in the long run; now the strength will be to repeat that type of game,” Aquilani explained.
Injury updates were positive: Idzes, Berardi and Leysen have trained, while Walukiewicz remains out. Aquilani noted, “Idzes trained, Berardi trained, Leysen spent a week with us, so Walukiewicz is still a bit behind the schedule, but reviewing these players is positive because they are starting to work.”
On the transfer front, Aquilani kept Kristian Thorstvedt on the radar, stating, “Kristian, as long as I see him, even just training in the green shirt, I consider him.” He also praised young prospect Lipani, adding, “Lipani is a prospect I want to work with, he can play as a playmaker or a mezzala, and I expect a lot from him.”
Regarding the new arrival, Aquilani explained how Sebastiano Esposito could change the attack compared with Andrea Pinamonti: “Andrea is always a penalty‑area striker, while Sebastiano has recently played close to a striker. He can do everything, play as a 9 or a 10.” He left the door open for a partnership with Bowie, saying, “He can certainly play with Bowie, but we’ll wait until I see him.”
Finally, Aquilani reiterated his commitment to youth, urging young players to seize opportunities and turn mistakes into growth. He recalled friend and former Serie B rival Ignazio Abate and praised Alphadjo Cisse’s unique qualities, concluding that a complete performance against Torino will require intensity, balance and, above all, greater cynicism.