Sassuolo: Alberto Aquilani at Risk of Being Fired; Another Name Joins the List of Potential Replacements

Alberto Aquilani’s position as Sassuolo’s head coach is becoming increasingly precarious following Saturday night’s crushing 3-0 loss in Rome against the Giallorossi—yet another setback that further exacerbates a crisis of results that has been ongoing for some time. After an encouraging start to the season with seven points in the first four matchdays, the Neroverdi have completely lost their way, managing just one draw against Milan and suffering six losses in their next seven matches.

Numerous injuries have contributed to the sharp decline, but what weighs most heavily are the alarming defensive lapses that have characterized recent heavy losses—from the four goals conceded against Frosinone and Fiorentina to the 6-2 defeat at the hands of Lazio and the latest loss in the capital.

This situation inevitably puts Aquilani’s position as head coach at serious risk, prompting the front office and the fan base to question the team’s future. As the specter of dismissal looms larger, speculation continues over his successor: among the most likely candidates are Andrea Sottil, ready to get back in the game if called upon, and Roberto D’Aversa, a name recently linked to Udinese before the Friuli-based club decided to replace Kosta Runjaic.

There may also be interest in Davide Ballardini, an expert at turning around struggling teams, most recently at Avellino in Serie B last season, where he took over a team in the relegation zone and led them all the way to the playoffs. Ballardini is currently without a team and is waiting for a call, making himself available even for a top-flight club.

Less likely is the rumor that emerged in recent days regarding Stefano Pioli. The coach who led Milan to the Scudetto in 2022 is an intriguing prospect given his desire to make a comeback in the Italian league following his most recent stints, but the competition to sign him is fierce: Atalanta is also interested in the coach and is considering the possibility of bringing in the Parma-born manager should Maurizio Sarri be fired.