After a standout 2018/19 campaign under Walter Mazzarri, the big challenge is on at Torino to attempt to replicate that form.
Having kept hold of most of their star names and key figures, there will understandably be optimism that the Granata can enjoy another season to remember.
Much of that may depend on the Europa League and how far their interests extend in that competition, which will test the strength in depth of the squad in a major way.
But this is a side built on defensive brilliance and being so tough to beat and score against under Mazzarri with men like Armando Izzo, Nicolas Nkoulou and Salvatore Sirigu being big reasons for that.
They fended off summer interest in Izzo, who committed his future to the club and at the other end have once again managed to retain the services of captain and top scorer Andrea Belotti.
‘Il Gallo’ just appears to be in the perfect groove and rhythm with Toro at the moment and he need only look at the recent cases of former star men Alessio Cerci and Ciro Immobile as proof that the grass isn’t necessarily always greener elsewhere.
Summer Dealings – 4/10
Aside from players completing permanent moves to the club at the end of loan spells, the summer spending has been low key and in truth, rather disappointing.
Ola Aina’s acquisition from Chelsea is an intelligent one, while Cristian Ansaldi and Simone Zaza have also finalised permanent moves from Inter and Valencia respectively but more reinforcements are needed.
However, the one positive is that no key men have moved on or exited the club either with the only notable player to depart bring Emiliano Moretti, having hung up his boots.
Key Man – Andrea Belotti
Toro’s main strength is their defensive solidity and Izzo and Sirigu are vital for that but it is their captain and ace marksman Belotti who is the one man this team cannot do without.
Last year, he became the first player since the mid ’70s to score at least 15 goals in two separate top flight seasons for the Granata and you would fancy him to make it a hat-trick this year.
One to watch – Vittorio Parigini
Vittorio Parigini has been at the club since the age of 10 but now at 23, it is now or never for him to make an impact and show that he belongs at this level.
He has spent several spells out on loan and only made his first appearance for Torino last September. Fans are keen to see him succeed but it is up to him to show that he has the quality to hang for a top half Serie A outfit.
The Coach – Walter Mazzarri
Walter Mazzarri’s side haven’t always been a joy to watch but his three-man central defence have been a major behind the club’s incredible defensive strength.
Under his tutelage, the side lost just two away games on the road last season: a stunning statistic that was bettered only by Liverpool in Europe’s top five leagues with one loss away from home.
Prediction – 10th
If Toro do manage to secure Europa League group stage football and potentially beyond, then the Thursday-Sunday schedule and lack of depth in the squad could hurt unless some late signings are made.
Source: forzaitalianfootball.com