Genoa coach says defeat at San Siro isn’t inevitable and calls for courage, balance, and belief against league leaders
There’s no inferiority complex in Genoa ahead of their trip to face league leaders Inter at San Siro. In fact, head coach Daniele De Rossi made it clear: writing off the match before kickoff is unacceptable.
“You can’t resign yourself to mediocrity,” De Rossi said. “Winning against Torino and then assuming it’s normal to lose against Inter? That mentality is wrong. And feeling already safe because of the standings? When I sense too much comfort, it’s my duty to bring back pressure and responsibility.”
Respect, But No Fear
Inter may be coming off a Champions League elimination, but De Rossi doesn’t expect a distracted opponent.
“They’re built to win,” he said. “They still have major objectives. If anything, wounded pride makes champions even more dangerous.”
Still, Genoa believe they can compete. “At these levels, you can’t just defend and hope,” De Rossi explained. “In the first meeting we were excellent without the ball, but not good enough in possession. Against teams like Inter, you must also manage the ball — slow their rhythm and create spaces.”
The San Siro Factor
For De Rossi, the venue carries personal meaning.
“It’s a special stadium, full of history. I’ve had more wins than losses there against strong teams,” he recalled. “The last time we played in Milan, we left with regret but also awareness that we could compete.”
Set pieces will be crucial, he added. “We’ve discussed it at length. They can score in so many ways — probably the strongest team in the league. Maximum focus is required.”
Balance Over Chaos
The Genoa coach stressed the importance of equilibrium — not reckless verticality.
“Being too direct can lead to matches like the one against Napoli,” he said. “Great aggression, lots of recoveries, but little quality with the ball. Against top sides you need balance between defending well and managing possession.”
He believes big teams are uncomfortable when forced to chase. “They prefer to have the ball. But they’re organized to win it back quickly. We’re growing in managing spaces and moments.”
Injuries and Squad Decisions
On the fitness front, De Rossi joked about Junior Messias — “He’s spent so much time out he’s become friends with the medical staff!” — before confirming the squad is largely healthy. Norton-Cuffy remains doubtful, while Otoa is recovering from an ankle issue.
“If a player can be on the field, he plays,” De Rossi said. “But I won’t risk someone long term. I prefer a healthy alternative to a starter at 70 percent.”
Baldanzi’s Growth
De Rossi also praised Tommaso Baldanzi, highlighting his maturity and personality.
“He’s grown a lot. He takes responsibility now,” De Rossi said. “Talent isn’t enough in Italy — you need consistency and sacrifice. He has the dynamism and versatility to become almost unique in our football, but he’s just at the beginning.”
A Work in Progress
The “perfect Genoa,” De Rossi admitted, won’t appear overnight.
“We’re building solid foundations. The first half against Torino was very close to my idea of football — aggressive, organized, capable of controlling possession. But when a game seems under control, you can’t lose focus.”
The message before facing Inter is clear: belief, not resignation.
For De Rossi, mentality is everything. And at San Siro, Genoa intend to show they belong.
