Sassuolo: Alberto Aquilani’s Job Is on the Line; A Surprise Name Emerges in Case of Dismissal

At Sassuolo, discussions have begun regarding Alberto Aquilani’s future as head coach. Monday night’s 4-2 loss to Fiorentina confirms a slump in results that is dragging the Neroverdi into a downward spiral: after an encouraging start to the season—highlighted by 7 points earned in the first four matchdays—the team has completely lost its way, managing just one draw against Milan and suffering five losses in the subsequent six games.

Numerous injuries have certainly contributed to this sharp decline, but the alarming defensive lapses—which have made their recent heavy defeats emblematic, from the four goals conceded against Frosinone and Fiorentina itself to the crushing 6-2 loss to Lazio—certainly haven’t gone unnoticed.

This situation inevitably puts Alberto Aquilani’s job on the line, with club management and fans beginning to question the coach’s future. The possibility of his dismissal has already sparked the usual speculation about potential replacements. Among the most likely candidates are Andrea Sottil—who recently stated he’d be ready to step in if called upon by a Serie A or Serie B club—and Roberto D’Aversa, a name that was, incidentally, recently linked to Udinese before the Friuli-based club decided to go with Paolo Zanetti.

However, a fascinating suggestion has been added to the list: in Sassuolo and the surrounding area, some have in fact begun to mention Stefano Pioli’s name. The coach who led Milan to the Scudetto in 2022 currently represents a pipe dream, but the idea is intriguing given the coach’s desire to get back into the game in Italy and relaunch his career after his lackluster stint in Saudi Arabia and his disastrous spell at Fiorentina, by accepting a stimulating challenge—even if it’s less prestigious on paper.