Alberto Gilardino says he is ready to bring a more attacking approach to Parma after returning to the club as head coach, describing his new role as being an “orchestra conductor”.
The 44-year-old has taken charge following the termination of Carlos Cuesta’s contract by mutual consent. The decision came after fundamental disagreements developed between Parma and their former coach.
Parma used the extended break for international duty to appoint Gilardino, who first had to end his contract with Pisa. That agreement remained in place after he was dismissed on 1 February.
Gilardino’s appointment marks his return to the Stadio Tardini, where he played for Parma from 2002 to 2005. Speaking at his first news conference, he said the occasion had carried particular significance.
“I am emotional to be here today, and I thank the owners and directors for this opportunity,” said Gilardino.
“I am fired up and eager to transmit that feeling during our training sessions. My past at Parma is a treasure that I carry with me, but alongside that passion and sense of belonging, today I must be an orchestra conductor. I am back here in a very different role.”
Although Gilardino held his news conference on Thursday, he had already begun work with the squad earlier in the week.
“It was my fourth training session, so although a few internationals are away, I am getting to know the players,” he said.
“The team is eager to test itself and that is fundamental. Now we must begin building the foundations, one brick at a time.
“Our mantra must be unity – between the club, the directors, the staff, the team and the fans. Only by moving forward together can we produce good performances and results.”
As a former player beginning a coaching career, Gilardino was asked which managers had influenced him most.
“I worked with many coaches and tried to take a little something from all of them, but ultimately my ideas and my approach are my own,” he said.
Cuesta had been criticised for concentrating too heavily on defensive organisation and not enough on attacking play, an approach linked to his previous work with Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.
Gilardino said he did not believe there was a single correct tactical model but indicated that changes could be made at Parma.
“Everyone has their own tactical principles. I would not say there is a right or wrong way of doing things,” he said.
“I will probably change a few things. I believe spirit and DNA are important, as is working on the characteristics of each individual and accentuating certain situations.
“We have to create movements within the team that can make the most of players such as David Romero in the final third. I want the players to speak to me and share their views. I feel Parma should be ambitious, but not presumptuous.”
