Parma coach Roberto Donadoni has stated that the players and staff at the club feel deserted amidst the financial trouble the Crociati are facing.
The club has seen vehicles and gym equipment confiscated from their training ground to pay for outstanding debts, in addition to having their game against Udinese last week postponed as they could not pay for security, and the former Italy coach highlighted the reasons his team decided against travelling to Genoa for the game scheduled Sunday, despite having a sponsor to pay for their transportation.
“It’s not a mere economic problem,” he said. “Even though some players and employees speak about it as so, we need to find out how we got to this point.
“I haven’t seen anyone who has looked at the situation and said: ‘Maybe I’m to blame for all that has happened’.
“Those responsible were allowed to operate in a certain way. I’m tired of seeing people try to patch the situation, the moment has come to act in a radical manner.
“Such situations can’t occur again, we must be more aware and try to avoid it.”
Donadoni then went on to thank the squads who have decided to enter the field 15 minutes late in solidarity with the Ducali’s financial woes, as well as stating that he has no problems with facing sanctions, in the light of the decision against travelling to face the Grifone.
“I thank all the players who are in solidarity with us, it’s only come from them; no-one else off the pitch bothered to act,” he said. “We contacted the Coaches Association, but other than that, nothing.
“Everyone is trying to protect their own interests, and that’s how it’s like in the world of football.
“If I have to serve penalties and face sanctions, I will proudly do so. Maybe someone else would not like it that much, but I’m doing what I stand for, so I don’t mind it at all.
“There are principles in life that are worth fighting for, we aren’t turned on and off like robots; we’re human beings and we have emotions. It’s impossible to focus on football at the moment.
“We feel like carrion in the desert, surrounded by jackals and vultures. Think of all the 17 and 18-year-old boys who have a future ahead of them.”
The former AC Milan midfielder concluded his words by emphasising the fact that the team remains positive that club president Giampietro Manenti can save the club from financial failure.
“I hope there will be positive developments, we remain positive and we have hope,” he said.
