The process of revitalizing the giallorossi club is significantly shaping the summer of 2024, with all club sectors involved in laying the groundwork for the ambitious project envisioned by the new ownership. A crucial aspect of this revitalization concerns the youth sector, whose structure has been completely overhauled to meet new challenges and ambitions. At the helm of this new direction are two methodology coordinators chosen by Davide Mandorlini: Federico Turchetta and Giulio Pastecchia, who will oversee the project. Their focus will be on creating an identifiable and vertical pathway within the youth sector.
The principles and guidelines for the youth sector and the entire giallorossi staff are clear and deep. As outlined by Mandorlini at the press conference, these principles aim to make Ravenna the top choice for all local young players. The foundational philosophy centers on the development and growth of the player not only from a technical or physical perspective but also in terms of personality, how they handle situations on and off the field. Values, identity, and a vision that extend beyond on-field results will help form players who can progress to the first team.
To achieve these goals, the methodology will embrace multidisciplinary aspects related to psychology, communication, pedagogy, and neuroscience. It will be supported by a team where coaches are in constant evolution to foster learning and provide the best educational path for the players. Open-mindedness, a continuous desire for growth, and curiosity are the key traits sought in the coaches, who will be introduced to the players’ families in the coming days.
The vision for football training is global, aiming to educate players within the complexity and depth of the sport while recognizing a clear identity. Joining Turchetta and Pastecchia in this journey is Lorenzo Dadina, confirmed as the performance area manager, who has been coordinating the physical preparation of the young lions for years.
Regarding the youth sector composition, this will be a new path, starting from the previous season’s squad and allowing players to test themselves with this new methodology. For future integrations, the new scouting area manager, Massimo Paciotti, is already active. He and his team will be responsible for identifying promising talents to be included in the giallorossi youth system, working ethically and in collaboration with local clubs—a synergy that is essential.
Completing the managerial framework of the structure are two organizational managers: Federico Masotti for competitive activities and Sandro Bonfiglioli for grassroots activities. The sports secretariat will include Sara Gobbi, Clara Geminiani, and Mariateresa Santaguida.