In the intricate landscape of Italian football, where ambition often grapples with economic realities, clubs like Trento Calcio offer a compelling case study in calculated growth. Recently, Luca Piazzi, General Manager of Trento, offered a comprehensive look into the club`s strategy, shedding light not only on their immediate objectives but also on broader systemic issues within Serie C and Italian youth development.
A Foundation of Measured Ambition: The Trento Blueprint
Trento`s approach to the new season is marked by deliberate choices. The appointment of Moreno Zocchi as the new Sporting Director signals a clear intent. Piazzi emphasized a precise vision for team construction: identifying the right player profiles, understanding optimal recruitment timings, and focusing on player development. While acknowledging that a core group might operate outside strict parameters, the general direction is firmly established. This measured stance is a refreshing contrast to the often-frenetic pace of the transfer market.
Piazzi underscored President Mauro Giacca`s message of growing ambition, clarifying that this isn`t about immediate head-to-head competition with financial heavyweights like Vicenza. Instead, it`s about a relentless, step-by-step improvement. “Since my arrival, and even before, Trento has steadily improved,” Piazzi stated, “in results, organization, and infrastructure. Our ambition is to continue this trajectory.” It’s a philosophy that champions sustainability over fleeting glory, a rare commodity in modern football.
The Poacher`s Return: Samuel Di Carmine Extends His Stay
One of the most anticipated announcements from Piazzi revolved around forward Samuel Di Carmine. The seasoned striker, whose knack for finding the net is well-documented, is set to continue his tenure with Trento. Piazzi confirmed the agreement is “99% done,” awaiting only formal ratification. This colloquial assurance speaks volumes about the confidence surrounding the deal.
Di Carmine`s importance extends beyond his goal-scoring prowess. “He is an important player,” Piazzi noted, “with a sense for goal, but also great leadership, and that counts a lot in the dressing room.” His presence is seen as pivotal for Trento`s ambition to surpass last season`s results, elevate game quality, and enhance goal-scoring efficacy. With 12 new players already integrated, the general manager acknowledged the inherent risks of such significant squad upheaval but expressed confidence in the ongoing reconstruction.
As for further market activities, Trento is still seeking three key players, specifically two offensive wingers, following an unexpected departure. These additions are not mere fillers but are intended to be “important elements for the team`s economy,” indicating a focus on quality over quantity.
Navigating Serie C`s Treacherous Financial Waters
Piazzi did not shy away from a critical assessment of Serie C`s financial landscape, particularly concerning club stability. Discussing issues like those faced by Triestina, Piazzi`s administrative insights were sharp. While acknowledging new league rules—such as an experimental Salary Cap, active liquidity index, and higher guarantees—he voiced a strong desire for even stricter measures.
“Honestly, I would be for even more restrictive rules that guarantee total coverage for what is invested,” he declared. The current system, he argued, suffers from a lack of equilibrium, with some clubs failing to adhere to regulations, thereby penalizing those, like Trento, who operate with financial prudence. The “experimental” nature of the Salary Cap, which allows for fines rather than strict adherence, drew a subtle critique. Piazzi`s concern is palpable: financial instability doesn`t just disrupt competition; it undermines the integrity of the league. He stressed that critical issues should be resolved at the time of club registration, advocating for “much more solid guarantees” for clubs seeking entry.
A Bold Vision for Italian Youth Football: Beyond the `Second Teams`
Perhaps Piazzi`s most compelling discourse concerned the controversial topic of “second teams” (U23/B teams), introduced to foster Italian youth talent after the national team`s World Cup qualification misses. While generally supportive, Piazzi questioned the efficacy of merely adding “3-4 second teams” to a national championship to solve a systemic issue. His assessment was blunt: “There are at least 10-15 clubs in C today that seem more like Serie D than C.” In such cases, second teams bringing resources and focusing on youth could be beneficial, but it`s far from a panacea.
Piazzi’s proposal is more ambitious. He advocates for an increased number of second teams, but with clear criteria for access—whether through repechage or, more importantly, promotion from Serie D, mirroring models in Spain or Germany. He believes Serie D could serve as a vital formative league, allowing deserving teams to ascend to Serie C while others provide project stability.
Crucially, Piazzi also suggested reverting the Primavera (youth league) age limit to 19. This change, he argued, would genuinely assist all clubs in completing the growth of their young players. It’s a pragmatic yet bold call for structural reform, aiming to cultivate a deeper pool of talent rather than simply creating a few isolated pockets.
Trento`s Pragmatic Path Forward
Trento Calcio, under Luca Piazzi`s stewardship, is clearly charting a path defined by disciplined growth, strategic player acquisitions, and a firm stance on financial accountability within the league. While meticulously building their squad for immediate competitive success, they also contribute to the broader dialogue on Italian football`s future, particularly concerning financial integrity and robust youth development. Their journey is a testament to the idea that success isn`t just about spending big, but about thinking smart, acting responsibly, and daring to advocate for systemic change.
