Torino FC is ramping up its efforts in the transfer market, having successfully secured new signings in all departments—Marianucci in defense, Prati in midfield, and Kulenovic in attack. However, the team now faces the pressing need for results on the pitch. General manager Petrachi has attempted to rectify last summer’s recruitment errors by parting ways with Asllani and Ngonge, both of whom were touted as promising acquisitions during Davide Vagnati’s last transfer window. Now, the spotlight is on coach Baroni, who must turn the team’s fortunes around.
The pressure mounts as Baroni’s position grows increasingly precarious; the upcoming match against Lecce feels like a last chance for redemption. The statistics are sobering: Torino has endured four consecutive losses and eight defeats in their last eleven league matches, while conceding 40 goals across 22 games, making it the league’s worst defense. Additionally, the team has scored only once in the past 360 minutes of play. With only five points separating them from the relegation zone, the stakes are higher than ever.
In a bid to regroup, Vlasic and his teammates entered a training retreat, a disciplinary measure instituted after a humiliating loss to Como. Unfortunately, their injury problems persist, with Simeone likely missing his third straight match. Njie and Zapata are under consideration to support Adams in the attacking lineup. Baroni will have the new signings, Marianucci and Prati, available, though they are expected to start from the bench. Meanwhile, Kulenovic’s inclusion hinges on completing his registration paperwork in time. The coach has experimented with a three-man defense including Tameze, Maripan, and Coco, retaining his usual midfield configuration of Casadei, Ilkhan, and Vlasic, while Obrador awaits the chance to prove himself, albeit lagging behind the starting duo of Pedersen and Lazaro.
In addition to the challenges posed by Lecce, Torino faces external pressures, as organized fan groups from the Maratona stand have announced a boycott of support in the curve. The discontent is not solely directed at President Cairo; a new banner has appeared criticizing his management: “You wanted to be like Pianelli, you’re worse than Cimminelli,” echoing the frustrations of the supporters.
With heightened tensions both on and off the field, Torino hopes to secure a much-needed victory to regain confidence and momentum. The upcoming match against Lecce presents an opportunity for the team to turn their fortunes, with the fresh additions potentially providing the spark needed to ignite a turnaround.