Coach Ignazio Abate opened Torino's press conference before the match against Parma, summoning journalists at 2.30pm in the conference room of the Olimpico Grande Torino stadium. The meeting, which was broadcast live on Tuttomercatoweb, had as its main theme the team's preparation for the seventh matchday of Serie A, scheduled for Monday at 8.45pm.
Abate underlined the importance of maintaining the strong mentality that has characterized the team in recent days. “With each passing day we are more and more convinced of our margins, there is a high level and we are creating a strong mentality,” he declared, referring to the positive energy that can be felt within the club. He also highlighted the need not to run away from mistakes and to continue working on the group, recalling the attitude shown against Udinese as an example to replicate.
The discussion then moved on to the key players. Abate praised Vlasic's growth, calling him an important player both physically and mentally, and confirmed his willingness to play as a winger in a 4‑4‑2. As for the attackers, the coach said that everyone is fine, but warned about Pellegri's load, which after months of inactivity must be modulated. Zapata, however, was cited as being in form and improving in condition, with the manager expressing confidence in his ability to contribute to goals.
On the topic of defence, Abate reiterated the objective of reducing the goals conceded, recalling the match against Udinese in which the team conceded few goals but committed a "lightness" in a crucial phase. He also spoke about Casadei's role, underlining the need for the young player to evolve from "kid" to "adult" and to put more feeling into his performances. Kulenovic has been cited as a player who, although not considered a "match-breaker", is fundamental to the strategy and has earned the coach's utmost trust.
Finally, Abate spoke about the importance of maintaining team spirit, especially in view of the match in Parma, which he describes as "very difficult" and "there are no simple matches". He asked the players to bring the spirit they have shown since the beginning of the year and not to be discouraged, remembering that the team must continue to grow like a "family" and that feeling is the basis of everything. With these words he closed the conference, leaving the public with the expectation of a determined and cohesive performance in the next challenge.