Today’s edition of “La Repubblica” focuses on the revolution in Palermo between entries and exits.
Palermo is preparing for a real revolution, affecting all departments of the team in view of next season. After the exit from the play-offs and Gardini’s comment, “more could have been done”, the club is determined to build a competitive team to regain Serie A, which has been missing since 2017.
Doorman
Palermo has decided not to buy out any of the players on loan, including Mancuso, Coulibaly, Henderson and Traoré. For the role of goalkeeper, Desplanches will replace Pigliacelli, with the aim of pairing him with an experienced goalkeeper. Pigliacelli, with a contract until 2025, may have to accept a supporting role.
Defence
Ceccaroni could relaunch himself thanks to his acquaintance with the new coach Dionisi since his time at Venezia. Lucioni, who turns 37 in September, is in an uncertain position due to his injuries. Palermo is evaluating Ferrari as a possible replacement.
Full backs: Graves and Lund are confirmed, but there are doubts about Buttaro and Aurelio, with possible loans for one or both.
Midfield
Gomes: Now on the over list, he could leave the club.
Segre: The contract extension is a priority, but there are several teams interested, with Lecce in the lead.
Playmaker: Palermo needs a playmaker to develop Dionisi’s game. Stulac and Saric are already in the squad, but the most interesting name is that of Mazzitelli from Frosinone, capable of also playing as a midfielder.
Outlook: Peda, a twenty-two-year-old Polish player already owned by Palermo, will be evaluated in retirement after his experience at Spal.
Attack
Brunori: With the possibility of a farewell, Palermo is evaluating several experienced attackers such as Lapadula (Cagliari), Coda (Genoa), and Defrel (Sassuolo). Sebastiano Esposito seems to be in pole position, with whom De Sanctis has already started dialogues with Inter.
Other Names: Ascoli’s Pedro Mendes is another target, but there is plenty of competition from both Serie B and overseas clubs such as New York City and Los Angeles FC.
Palermo is facing a phase of great change, with the aim of building a competitive team for next season. The new management, with Dionisi on the bench and De Sanctis as sporting director, is working to strengthen every department and aim for promotion to Serie A. The club’s strategy includes both the acquisition of experienced players and the relaunch of young talents, with a keen eye on market opportunities.
