Sampdoria was created in 1946 by the merger of Andrea Doria and Sampierdarenese, going on to mixed results until their relegation to Serie B in 1966. The Blucerchiati earned immediate promotion and held mid-table status for a decade, but the 1970s were their darkest hour with a series of mediocre Second Division performances.
Beloved President Paolo Mantovani took charge in 1979 and oversaw what was to become one of Italy’s greatest sides. The culmination of this project, with Gianluca Vialli and Roberto Mancini leading the way, was the 1991 Scudetto, Cup-Winners Cup, Italian Super Cup and four Coppa Italias. Perhaps Mantovani’s greatest regret was seeing his side beaten by Barcelona during extra time of the 1992 European Cup Final.
Since Mantovani’s death they have struggled with financial woes, selling off all their top stars, and spent four years in Serie B. But a massive injection of funds from new owner Riccardo Garrone, an oil baron, has given them an impressive squad after promotion to the top flight.
Garrone’s side remain underachievers and hope a complete renovation of their attack, as well as a change of Walter on the bench from Novellino to Mazzarri, can give them the boost they need.
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