Football Season Guide

In the past season, Palermo were expected to be struggling for a place in the top four, thanks to the wonders shown previously. During the summer, though, a couple of top players had left and thus coach Rossi was unable to lead the team there where President Zamparini wanted. Palermo had to be happy with a place in the Europa League and Rossi was given the sack. Especially after getting a 7-0 thrashing at home by Udinese, he was no longer welcome by his employer. Thus, Pioli, who had obtained a positive safety with Chievo Verona, stepped in instead during the course of this summer. It has to be found out whether he knew what he was going to face or not, though. In fact, as soon as he arrived he realized he was not going to be able to count on two key players like Sirigu and Pastore. There is still some uncertainty over the new regular goalkeeper: the next ten days will be decisive for an adequate replacement for Sirigu. On the other hand, the defence has been considerably strengthened by the arrivals of Mantovani and Silvestre, who should make it straight to the starting eleven. Considering that also Cetto is a candidate for a shirt, Bovo too could end up leaving before the 31st of August. Just like with Chievo Verona, Pioli could adopt a 3-4-2-1 system. This way, Cassani and Balzaretti would be advanced at the flanks of the midfield, while at the centre would be confirmed Migliaccio and Nocerino. For the attack, Ilicic and Miccoli could support a lone striker, like Hernandez, Pinilla or Gonzalez. Unless, the coach opts for a 3-4-2-1 with two forwards instead.