Salernitana has officially introduced its new management team as the club seeks to turn around its disappointing performance this season. On January 4, 2024, the club appointed Marco Valentini as the new sports director and Roberto Breda as head coach. The announcement was made during a press conference held by CEO Maurizio Milan, who emphasized the need for change due to the team’s unsatisfactory position on the league table.
Milan stated, “The reasons for this change are obvious: the league position is not sustainable at the start of the season. We are going through a transition year, and the results have not been rewarding.” The CEO expressed gratitude to Valentini for accepting the challenging role, noting, “His curriculum and enthusiasm have pushed us to choose him to achieve our objectives.”
Valentini, who has previously held roles at Juventus and has extensive experience with clubs like Salernitana, expressed commitment to the task at hand, vowing to focus on action rather than words. “I’m here to understand the situation. Time is precious, and we must act swiftly,” he asserted. He called attention to improving the squad’s performance, which currently stands at only 18 points, making it clear, “There is a structural problem with the team. I have not seen teams succeed without reliable forwards.”
The newly appointed coach, Breda, is returning to Salernitana for a second stint, bringing knowledge of the club and its dynamics. He stressed his intent to instill confidence and tactical flexibility within the team, saying, “I have clear ideas, and it's important to be open to various formations.” Breda declared his focus on finding players who fit the club's urgent needs, particularly emphasizing the necessity of strengthening the attack.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Valentini outlined the club's strategy, confirming they have specific names on their radar to bolster the roster. “We need surgical signings — players who are committed to the project, with the heart and desire to excel.” With several forwards currently underperforming, attention is turning to potential new signings, including forwards Alberto Cerri and Adrian Benedyczak, alongside possible midfield reinforcements.
The club aims for at least 43 points to secure safety, with Valentini acknowledging the urgency of this goal. “No team survives without goals. We must improve this area significantly,” he remarked, hinting at plans to pursue two forwards if necessary. The restructuring aims at re-engaging with fans and reversing the declining results.
This management change, according to Milan, is set against the backdrop of financial stability, noting, “This club has debts, but we have the ability to operate on the market without worry.” He emphasized the previous management’s role and the need to correct the course with the new appointments.
Looking forward, both Valentini and Breda expressed their commitment to working closely to rebuild the team, garnering support from fans who have faced disappointment over the current season. “This is just the beginning. We want to create something special here and we believe we can achieve it,” said Breda, as he concluded the press announcement.
With their contracts structured for six months, coupled with options for extension based on performance, the ambition from both Valentini and Breda is clear: revive Salernitana’s competitive spirit as they prepare for their upcoming match against Sassuolo on January 12, 2024. The sentiment throughout the club echoes one of hope and determination as the new management sets forth to reclaim their season.