Over the past few weeks we have seen a lot of reports linking Italian full back Matteo Darmian with a move to Old Trafford. Naturally a relatively unheard of name being linked with Manchester United has been met with scepticism from fans across the country, the term “YouTube sensation” has been branded about quite unfairly considering how well not only he but his Torino team performed last season both domestically and in the Europa League.
Much of the scepticism stems from the fact that Torino is a small club in many of today’s fans views, however what they don’t know is that they’re in fact one of the most successful teams in Italian club history, the first Italian club to win the double. More recently they haven’t been as successful but since their return to Italy’s first division in 2013 they have managed impressive 7th and 9th placed finishes playing exciting football along the way.
Source: torinofc.it
Veteran coach Giampiero Ventura opted for a 3-5-2 formation, visibly setup for away days and the counter attack. Naturally his side weren’t going to dominate against some of the better sides in the league and across Europe but with the strength in wide areas and aerial threat up front it made life very difficult for even the best of opponents. Darmian at right full back stood out as a player that seemed tactically well prepared, he raced forward at the right times but was equally aware of his defensive duties – winning a strong 70% of his tackles whilst still managing to create 39 chances going forward.
He most impressed me in the 2nd leg of the Europa League round of 32 (vs Athletic Bilbao) where aside from his goal and assist he made it seems like he had the freedom of the whole right side of the pitch at the San Mames. In a game that ended 3-2 (5-4 on agg ) the fact that he scored the winner made it even more clear in my mind that he was talented – confirmed by his inclusion in the Italian World Cup squad and for all six of Italy’s Euro 2016 qualifiers.
Bit more than a YouTube sensation, players have been signed on a lot less.
Kcee Lynch-Canoville
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