Padoin: My experience as a player can help the Under-20s | OneFootball

On Saturday, 16 August at 20:00 CEST, the Juventus Men’s Under-20s will make their league debut at home against Sassuolo. Simone Padoin will be in charge of the Under-20 team for the first time. Speaking with enthusiasm and a sense of responsibility, Padoin discusses his feelings on the job, the relationship with the young players and the challenges that await the team, starting with the demanding debut against Sassuolo.

A NEW CHALLENGE IN THE DUGOUT

"I expect to learn a lot, especially in my ability to manage certain situations. In the past, I have experienced seasons as a member of the coaching staff, but now the role of head coach involves decisions and more attention on many different aspects: from the organisation of training during the week to the choice of the lineups. I'm curious to see how I will get on in this new position, for now I'm having a lot of fun and the excitement is palpable. Now, the games that count have arrived and I'm excited to face new teams and coaches, managing the boys as best I can.”

THE VALUE OF PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

"I immediately told the guys that my experience as a player can be a help, especially in developing empathy with how things are going on the pitch. A coach must know how to interpret the thoughts and emotions of his players to communicate better. I think it's fortunate for me to have played, because certain things can only be learned on the pitch. Kids today have different habits, but at their age, the needs remain the same: to feel listened to, supported and valued.”

FROM INDIVIDUAL TALENT TO STRENGTH AS A GROUP

"We have a group of very good players from a technical point of view and with a very good approach on the pitch. The challenge now is to turn them into a real team: to win you also need heart, to go beyond your limitations, to help your teammates and to grow together. In preparation, we played eight friendlies against opponents of a similar level. There were good performances, although not always very good results. This tells us that we are still missing that little extra step, and to do that you need to put your heart into every game.”

CHALLENGING DEBUT AGAINST SASSUOLO

"The first match will not be easy: Sassuolo are a solid team, with experienced players and a coach who has worked there for years. We will have to approach the match carefully, with calm heads and enthusiasm. Many boys come from the Under-17 team and for them, the first games will not be easy, also from an emotional point of view. My task will be to find the right balance, to make them feel the importance of what is happening, but without overloading them too much.”