With Gianluca Lapadula’s introductory press conference now concluded, it was time for Sports Director Stefano Melissano to provide an update on the transfer market: “The defensive unit? In my opinion, we’re set as we are. If needed, we have Vignali, who can comfortably slot into the backline, as he showed in Carrara. Plus, we shouldn’t forget Benvenuto and Giorgeschi, two players I strongly believe in, who deserve their chance.
This winter window, our priority was to replace Sarr, and we immediately signed Chichizola. Then, with Soleri’s injury, whose recovery timeline remains uncertain, we had the opportunity to bring in Lapadula.
Bertola? There was never any real interest from any club. He’s still a Spezia player, and while we don’t know what will happen in the coming days, it’s not a concern. As I’ve always said, our main goal was to protect the technical project. Anyone interested in the player would have had to leave him at Spezia to maintain squad balance, as replacing him wouldn’t have been easy. Talks are ongoing, but at this point, what matters more is the current project rather than any potential sale.
Ownership change? We have an open communication process, I handle negotiations and discuss them with our CEO, who is my direct point of reference. My focus is on the players and the coach, helping them and supporting Spezia, because that’s the only thing that truly matters.
The talks with Lapadula began in early January. Our relationship certainly played a key role. I immediately wanted to show him the atmosphere of our stadium and the passion of our fans, making him understand that he could still achieve great things here. Up until Friday morning, he had significant offers from two Serie A clubs, but he had already chosen Spezia. He was committed to our project and was determined to be available for the Cittadella match. I want to thank Gianluca, as well as Cagliari, President Giulini, and Director Bonato for making this possible, it was a great source of satisfaction.
We started last January with the goal of building a strong identity and making ourselves and our fans proud. I don’t know what will happen in the next three months. It’s true that other teams have strengthened, but we’ve never looked at what others do. We’re focused on the present, and our only goal is to step onto the pitch and give everything. I’m honored to be the Sports Director of this team and this coach because our results are the product of collective commitment, and we must continue on this path.
My primary objective in this transfer window was not to disrupt the squad. If you make too many changes, it means something didn’t go right, not necessarily in terms of results, but also in team dynamics. No player asked to leave, not even those who’ve had less playing time. That didn’t surprise me, given that no one did even last year after a difficult period.
Our strength lies in sharing ideas, constant dialogue, and respect for roles without hiding from past mistakes or successes. That makes working together easier. We brought in both Chichizola and Lapadula, who, beyond being talented players, are great men. And that’s essential to being part of this group".
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