Gilardino likens his Parma role to 'orchestra conductor', says past is a treasure

Alberto Gilardino finds it ‘emotional’ to be back at Parma as a coach, is ready to take a more attacking approach than Carlos Cuesta and be ‘an orchestra conductor.’

The Ducali made the decision to terminate Cuesta’s contract by mutual consent after fundamental disagreements emerged between the club and their coach.

The opportunity afforded by the long break for international duty saw them draft in Gilardino , who first had to terminate his deal with Pisa, which was still running after he was sacked on February 1.

This represents a return to the Stadio Tardini for the 44-year-old, who was their player from 2002 to 2005.

Gilardino back at Parma in new role Official: Parma appoint Alberto Gilardino as head coach (via www.parmacalcio1913.com) “I am emotional to be here today, I thank the owners and directors for the opportunity,” said Gilardino in his press conference.

“I’m fired up and eager to transmit that sensation in our training lessons. My past at Parma is a treasure I carry with me, but along with that passion and sense of belonging, today I must be an orchestra conductor. I am back here in a very different role.”

epa11668963 Genoa’s coach Alberto Gilardino prior the Italian Serie A soccer match Genoa Cfc vs Bologna Fc, at Luigi Ferraris stadium, Genova, Italy, 19 October 2024. EPA-EFE/LUCA ZENNARO Although the press conference was held today, the new coach was brought in earlier this week.

“It was my fourth training session, so although a few internationals are away, I am getting to know the players. The team is eager to test themselves and that is fundamental, so now we must start building the foundations one brick at a time.

“Our mantra must be unity, between the club, directors, staff, team and fans. Only by moving forward together can we get good performances and results.”

PISA, ITALY – DECEMBER 27: Manager of Pisa Sporting Club Alberto Gilardino reacts during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and Juventus FC at Arena Garibaldi on December 27, 2025 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images) Inevitably, a former player is asked which coaches left the biggest mark on him in this new career.

“I worked with many coaches and tried to steal a little something from them all, but when it comes down to it, my ideas and approach are my own.”

Cuesta was criticised for focusing far too much on defending and not enough on the attack, reflecting his work with Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.

PARMA, ITALY – APRIL 12: Carlos Cuesta, Head Coach of Parma Calcio and Gabriel Strefezza of Parma Calcio greet each other after the match during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and SSC Napoli at Stadio Ennio Tardini on April 12, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images) “Everyone has his own tactical principles, I wouldn’t say there’s a right or wrong way of doing things,” replied Gilardino.

“I will probably change a few things. I think spirit and DNA are important, working on the characteristics of each individual and accentuating certain situations.

“We’ve got to create movements with the team that can make the most of players like David Romero in the final third. I want the players to talk to me and give their views. I feel Parma ought to be ambitious, but not presumptuous.”