Parma head coach Carlos Cuesta has confirmed that defender Franco Pellegrino is available for selection ahead of Friday's Serie A match against Pisa. The Argentine centre-back had been sidelined with an injury but has now recovered, according to the manager's pre-match press conference as reported by TMW and Parmalive. Cuesta also stated that midfielder Simon Valenti has returned to full fitness, bolstering the squad's options as they seek to secure their top-flight status.
Cuesta addressed the media on Thursday, focusing primarily on the immediate challenge posed by Pisa. He praised the opponent's physical structure and set-piece threat while emphasizing his own team's need to build on their recent process of growth. The Colombian coach, appointed earlier this season, stressed that safety from relegation is not the club's only objective, with the continued development of the squad being a parallel focus. He declined to confirm his starting lineup, particularly in goal, where a rotation between goalkeepers remains a possibility.
The availability of Franco Pellegrino provides a significant boost to Parma's defensive resources. The 24-year-old has been a regular when fit this season, making 22 league appearances in his debut Serie A campaign after joining from Argentine club Lanús last summer. His physical presence and aerial ability have been important assets in Parma's backline. His return comes at a crucial stage of the season, with the club sitting just above the relegation zone.
Cuesta also offered updates on other squad members. He highlighted the versatility and leadership of veteran Alessandro Delprato, who can play across the defensive line. Regarding midfielder Ibrahima Ndiaye, Cuesta noted that the Senegalese player's initial adaptation was slowed by a language barrier and a physical issue, but his performances and integration have since improved markedly. These returns from injury provide Cuesta with increased tactical flexibility for the run-in.
The immediate future, as Cuesta reiterated, is solely focused on the match against Pisa. With eight games remaining in the season, every point is vital for a Parma side that has struggled for consistency. The coach pointed to the team's need for more goals while maintaining defensive solidity as the key to accumulating points. The match at the Stadio Ennio Tardini represents an opportunity to create distance from the bottom three, with the team currently holding a five-point cushion over the relegation places.
The long-term planning at the club will inevitably intensify as the season concludes, but Cuesta's comments reflect a disciplined, game-by-game approach. The recovery of key players like Pellegrino and Valenti is a positive step, offering the manager more complete tools to execute his plans on the pitch. For now, the focus remains squarely on securing a positive result against Pisa to continue the club's push for safety and development.
