While global football fandom often fixates on the dazzling spectacle of Serie A, Italy`s third tier, Serie C, quietly unfolds its own gripping drama. Far from the billionaire owners and household names, this league offers a raw, tactical battleground where passion often trumps pedigree. Recently, coach Carmine Parlato, a seasoned observer of this intricate landscape, offered insights that paint a vivid picture of its current state – a narrative of strategic opportunities, surprising surges, and the enduring power of sound club management.
Girone A: Vicenza`s Pivotal Gambit
In Girone A, the stakes are rising like an espresso machine at full steam. Parlato pinpoints the upcoming weekend as potentially “decisive” for Vicenza, one of the anticipated frontrunners. Consider the scenario: Vicenza faces AlbinoLeffe, a team currently struggling to find its rhythm. Simultaneously, their closest rivals are locked in direct combat: Lecco against Brescia, and the surprising Alcione against Inter Under 23.
This isn`t merely a set of fixtures; it`s a meticulously arranged strategic chessboard. If Vicenza secures a victory while their competitors “battle it out” – inevitably leading to dropped points for some – their lead could expand significantly. It`s a classic case of capitalising on circumstance, proving that sometimes, the stars (and the fixture list) align to grant a clear path to advantage. Vicenza and Brescia, Parlato notes, are simply “respecting the predictions,” delivering the consistent performance expected of them.
The Quiet Rise: Alcione and Casarano Defy Expectations
The beauty of Serie C often lies in its capacity for pleasant surprises. While Vicenza and Brescia operate largely as anticipated, other clubs are crafting compelling underdog narratives.
Alcione Milano, for instance, is far from a one-season wonder. Parlato acknowledges their impressive run, noting they`ve been building quietly but effectively. He states,
“The Alcione doesn`t surprise me, because already last season they had an excellent championship.”
It`s a testament to sustained planning and execution – perhaps a gentle reminder that consistent performance doesn`t always require the loudest headlines, just a solid foundation.
Meanwhile, in Girone C, newly-promoted Casarano has emerged as an unlikely powerhouse. Initially, few would have tipped them for glory, but an unbeaten streak of five games has placed them firmly among heavyweights like Benevento, Catania, and Crotone. This isn`t just a purple patch; it`s a statement. Casarano, once an afterthought, is now vigorously “pushing not to let the leaders get away.” It`s a delightful disruption, proving that in Italian football`s lower echelons, ambition often finds its rewards, even for the fresh faces.
A Masterclass in Patience: The Cittadella Way
In an era where managerial merry-go-rounds spin faster than a poorly weighted football, the story of Cittadella offers a refreshing counter-narrative. Despite starting the season with a daunting -20 point penalty, they`ve clawed their way back to a mere -8, inching towards the playoff zone. Their recent victory over Triestina was a vital step.
Parlato credits Sporting Director Stefano Marchetti as the “ideal DS,” praising his unwavering trust in coach Iori.
“He has always maintained confidence, calm, and rationality, waiting for the results to arrive.”
This approach, allowing a team and coach to navigate difficulties collectively, stands in stark contrast to the knee-jerk reactions often seen elsewhere. It`s a philosophy that believes in perseverance over immediate panic, and Cittadella`s comeback is a compelling argument for its efficacy. Sometimes, the most radical move in modern football is simply not to make a move.
From the Dugout: Carmine Parlato`s Own Campaign
Bringing it full circle, Parlato offers a glimpse into his own current challenge with Sarnese. He speaks of “ambitious presidents” and “passionate fans” – the very lifeblood of grassroots Italian football. His comparison of his current group to the “old C2” is telling: “a very high level… with numerous crowds.” It paints a picture of a league that, despite its lower profile, demands immense dedication and offers profound satisfaction.
“There`s walking to do, no, running,” he concludes, encapsulating the relentless drive required to succeed in these fiercely competitive divisions. It’s a testament to the fact that whether you`re battling for promotion or building a foundation, Italian Serie C is anything but a quiet backwater. It is, instead, a vibrant, tactical, and profoundly human theatre of football.
