Wednesday 26 March, 2008

Francesco Guidolin has discussed his dismissal from the Palermo bench and given his opinion of President Maurizio Zamparini.

Guidolin was fired after last weekend’s 3-2 defeat against Genoa and Stefano Colantuono has returned to the Stadio Renzo Barbera.

“I was disappointed not to finish the season,” Guidolin said in La Repubblica.

“But I have been in football for 30 years and I know that those are the rules. I am proud to have played a part in the city’s footballing history.”

Guidolin’s exit came after relations with Zamparini became untenable and there have been suggestions that the Sicilians’ fiery chief is too trigger-happy for his side to enjoy lasting success.

“Can a side under Zamparini compete at the highest level? It’s important to win as much as possible and to keep winning. Otherwise the problems start,” Guidolin replied.

“Zampa always puts a good side at a Coach’s disposal and if you want a player he will do everything to sign him – the last example was Amauri.

“Over the last four years, the club has done great things on a financial level thanks to sporting director Rino Foschi.

“However, everything changes when the Rosanero start losing because the President doesn’t deal with that well.

“At the final whistle there’s no use for talking. Maybe he wants to win too much and he doesn’t realise that I want to win even more.”

Guidolin concluded by revealing his regret for his angry comments after his final game, when he described the atmosphere as “hellish.”

“I was criticised for being too patient, but then after two defeats in a row I cracked under the pressure,” he lamented.

“I wouldn’t react like that again because I think that a good Coach gives the right response on the pitch.”