Davide Nicola says he is back as the head coach of Salernitana — two days after the Serie A side sacked him.
Nicola, 49, presided over Salernitana’s 8-2 loss against Atalanta on Sunday and his departure was confirmed in a short statement a day later with the club 16th in the table.
Salernitana did not confirm Nicola’s exit on social media, with their last post on Twitter coming at the final whistle of the Atalanta match.
But on Wednesday, Nicola announced his return on his own social media channels after talks with club president Danilo Iervolino and sporting director Morgan De Sanctis.
“Here’s the truth,” Nicola wrote in a translated message. “Yesterday, president Danilo Lervolino called me and he politely explained the rationale behind the decision he reluctantly made to part ways following our awful display away at Atalanta.
“I immediately held my hands up for a performance that wasn’t up to scratch and for the resulting heavy defeat. That’s because I believe in this team and the players that are part of it, just as I believe in the great club behind the team.
“I pleaded with the president to reconsider my dismissal, well aware that I could tug on the heartstrings of a human being who’s open-minded enough to listen and who is very keen to do something different in the world of football. That’s because I love Salerno and I have the utmost belief in what we’re doing here.
“I thank the president for calling me back, that’s evidence that this new brand of football is full of heart and passion and that’s why I want to repay his faith in me with every fibre of my being and every last ounce of passion within me.”
“Now we all go again as one and we will write another extraordinary footballing tale and show the fans the same passion and unconditional support they show the club that they identify with.”
Salernitana have not yet confirmed Nicola’s return on official channels.
Nicola took charge of Salernitana last February and impressively guided them to safety.
Having been bottom of Serie A with 13 points from their first 23 matches, Salernitana finished the season one point and one position above the relegation zone after an upturn under Nicola.
Salernitana, who are nine points above the relegation zone, are back in Serie A action this weekend, with a home match against top-of-the-table Napoli on Saturday.
(Photo: Getty Images)
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