Cairo: Torino’s Season Impacted by Zapata’s Absence, Milinkovic-Savic Shines
Torino President Urbano Cairo has shared his thoughts on the team’s performance this season, emphasizing the significant impact of Duvan Zapata’s injury and praising goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic’s exceptional form.
The Turin-based club has maintained a consistent mid-table position throughout the season, occasionally challenging for a top-eight spot but ultimately settling into 10th place. With five rounds remaining in the campaign, Torino is set to play a crucial role in the Scudetto race as they face both Napoli and Inter.
Cairo expressed regret over the team’s results, stating, “If we had Duvan Zapata available for the entire season, we would have achieved much more. It’s comparable to Inter losing Lautaro Martinez. His absence has significantly altered our campaign.”
The Colombian striker had a strong start to the 2024-25 season, scoring four goals in nine appearances across Serie A and Coppa Italia. However, a torn anterior cruciate ligament in October 2024 sidelined him until the summer.
Milinkovic-Savic: A European Top Goalkeeper
Addressing rumors about potential player departures, Cairo discussed goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic: “We haven’t spoken to anyone, so these rumors are baseless. Milinkovic-Savic has a release clause in his contract, but such terms can be renegotiated. He’s an outstanding goalkeeper, one of Europe’s best, and has shown remarkable improvement.”
As Torino prepares to face Napoli at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona this weekend, the match will feature a clash of Scottish internationals, with Che Adams, Scott McTominay, and Billy Gilmour set to compete against each other.