The head coach of Wellington Phoenix, Giancarlo Italiano, has stated that it will ultimately be the decision of the club’s owners regarding his future beyond this season, following a disappointing 4-1 defeat against Western United in the Isuzu UTE A-League on Saturday.
The Phoenix suffered their fourth consecutive loss at Ironbark Fields, marking a sixth match without a victory, which has significantly jeopardised their chances of reaching the finals.
After an impressive run to the Semi-Finals in the 2023-24 season, this year has proven to be difficult for the Phoenix, particularly after losing key players such as Alex Paulsen, Ben Old, Finn Surmann, and Bozhidar Kraev, among others.
“The finals are out of reach; we won’t be making them,” Italiano told reporters after the match. “Even if we win all seven of our remaining games, we’ll still need to rely on other outcomes to go our way.”
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“At this point, we are really playing for pride as a club.”
“The manner in which we are losing games lately is simply unacceptable for the first 60 minutes.”
“We are fighting for the pride of the club in our next seven matches. I expect the players to show some fight.”
Italiano continued: “I feel just as disappointed as the fans. They travelled a long way to support us and they came expecting better; I expected better.”
“We must rally together as a team and demonstrate our true character.”
With his contract ending at the conclusion of the season, Italiano was questioned about his security in the role beyond 2024-25.
“Whatever will happen, will happen,” he responded when asked about his future.
“That’s beyond my control. If the club decides to appoint someone else, I wish them all the best.”
“I believe I still have a lot to offer. I’m at the beginning of my journey here. Together with the staff, we reached significant milestones last season, and I believe we can build upon that.”
“Realistically, when you lose seven starting players and are in a rebuilding phase, it’s unrealistic to expect a seamless transition. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be here; I’d be coaching somewhere else. It takes time.”
“John (Aloisi) has achieved great things this season. Last season, many were doubting him and questioning the club’s direction. They made astute signings, and now they rightfully sit where they do. We can certainly achieve that, too.”
“It’s a work in progress. It isn’t realistic to think we can replicate what we did last season, especially given the injuries and the inexperienced players we’ve brought in.”
“But ultimately, that’s for the ownership to decide.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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