Roberto D'Aversa addresses Torino future after Inter comeback
Torino manager Roberto D'Aversa has spoken openly about his future at the club, acknowledging his contract expires at the end of the season but insisting his focus remains solely on the final matches. D'Aversa made the comments in a press conference following Torino's dramatic 2-2 comeback draw against Serie A leaders Inter Milan at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino on Friday night.
After falling two goals behind, Torino mounted a spirited second-half fightback to secure a point, a performance D'Aversa described as courageous. He praised his players' effort against the soon-to-be-crowned champions, highlighting the impact of substitutions and a shift in mentality after halftime. "I asked the boys for courage and in the second half we put pressure on a team that will win the Scudetto," D'Aversa said, according to reports from the press conference.
The draw continues a positive recent run for a Torino side that had struggled for results against other top sides. D'Aversa noted that while similar performances against Napoli and AC Milan did not yield points, securing a result against the league's strongest team was a point of pride. He specifically cited the example of Duvan Zapata, recently returned from injury, as emblematic of the squad's dedication and professional attitude in training.
When directly questioned about his desire to open a long-term cycle at Torino, D'Aversa framed his response around the club's interests. "The moment I was called, I did it to reach an objective. I am linked by a contract until the end of the championship. My only thought is to reason day by day," he stated. He added that he is genuinely thinking about Torino and the Torino environment, which he considers more important than his own contractual situation.
D'Aversa also referenced the initial reaction to his appointment last November, following the dismissal of Ivan Juric. "When I arrived, not everyone was enthusiastic about my arrival. It was reasoned that I was chosen because there was nothing better around," he recalled. His stated goal since taking over was to demonstrate he could be a Torino coach and achieve the objectives set by the club's management.
Despite the improved form and the public backing of his players, D'Aversa acknowledged the club's leadership has remained silent on his future. "Now my contract is not the priority," he said, shifting focus back to the pitch. He expressed a desire to see more Torino fans in the stands for such prestigious fixtures, noting the noticeable presence of Inter supporters during the match.
With Torino sitting mid-table and mathematically safe from relegation, the final games of the season represent an opportunity for D'Aversa to further state his case. His immediate aim is to ensure his players continue to follow his lead with the same attitude and professionalism they have shown in recent weeks, with results treated as a natural consequence of that process.
