Gilardino: ‘No doubts on Genoa, focus on Pinamonti rather than Balotelli’ | OneFootball

Alberto Gilardino had ‘no doubts’ Genoa could fight back to hold Bologna in a 2-2 thriller, but while Mario Balotelli confirms he’s watching them, the coach wants to ‘enjoy’ Andrea Pinamonti’s form.

The Grifone have been in crisis in recent weeks with one point from five rounds, so their fans were starting to fear the worst when going 2-0 down at home to goals from Riccardo Orsolini and Jens Odgaard.

However, Pinamonti pounced on a Nicolò Casale defensive error and then turned a looping header into the top corner to complete the comeback.

Genoa players behind Gilardino

epa11668957 Genoa�s Andrea Pinamonti and Bologna’s Nicolo Casale in action during the Italian Serie A soccer match Genoa Cfc vs Bologna Fc, at Luigi Ferraris stadium, Genova, Italy, 19 October 2024. EPA-EFE/LUCA ZENNARO

“I had no doubts that the lads could have this reaction and we held on to the end,” Gilardino told DAZN.

“The second goal was frustrating, as we conceded it during our best spell of the game, but the reaction was what I wanted to see. With this spirit, picking up point by point, we can achieve our objective.”

There had been reports that Gilardino could be at risk of the sack following recent results and the injury crisis, but their response was reassuring for the coach.

“All the lads showed how versatile and ready to play in different roles they are. We tried to go for the victory at the end, playing with three strikers. I have to congratulate my players on their attitude, we never let our heads drop.”

Balotelli’s agent confirmed that the Italy veteran is waiting for Genoa to offer him a contract and sent a message to supporters today on Instagram when praising the second goal scored by Pinamonti.

However, Gilardino is not eager to answer questions on SuperMario.

“I know Mario, but today I want to enjoy Pinamonti, because he is our striker and we should celebrate this result. We’ll see what happens in the next few weeks and I hope to recover as many injured players as possible.”