Serie A Preview: Palermo

A disappointing season was made bearable thanks to Amauri’s return to full fitness in the second half of the season. Most of Palermo’s problems were of their own making. Having placed faith in Stefano Colantuono, it didn’t take long for president Maurizio Zamparini to change his mind opting instead to bring back Francesco Guidolin.

That move didn’t turn out too well either so it was soon back to Colantuono who remains in charge this season despite not fully convincing in his second stint. An early defeat in the Coppa Italia won't have increased his chances of surviving for much longer.

Unlike Colantuono, striker Amauri isn’t there since, was widely expected, the Brazilian striker moved to Juventus. With the money they got for him, Palermo have almost completely rebuilt their side and could start the season with just two players from last season.

In fact, rather than Amauri Palermo’s biggest loss in the summer was that of general manager Rino Foshi who opted to return to Genoa. Foschi is one of the shrewdest operators around and his final transfer campaign for Palermo bears that out. In have come the Italian national team goalkeeper Marco Amelia, the promising defensive trio of Andrea Raggi (Empoli), Cesare Bovo (Genoa) and Moris Carrozieri (Atalanta), as well as the highly rated duo from Juventus Davide Lanzafame and Antonio Nocerino.

Palermo still lack a suitable replacement for Amauri as the Brazilian TUlio De Melo hasn’t convinced, but they’ve got a basis of a side that could develop along the lines of Prandelli’s Fiorentina.

Key Man: Palermo made a mistake in getting rid of Eugenio Corini who wasn’t ever really replaced. The arrival of Fabio Liverani looks set to make up for that shortcoming.

Best bit of business: Palermo were determined to include Davide Lanzafame (pictured) in the Amauri deal and, after the player’s initial fears had been allayed, they got their man. Lanzafame was sensational for Bari last season and Palermo’s insistence is more than justified

Keep an eye out for…Simon Kjaer. Having spotted Kjaer at the Viareggio Tournament, Palermo moved quickly for the young Danish defender before others could be alerted of his talent. A typical Rino Foschi buy, he should soon be pushing for inclusion in the side.

Related Posts :