TORINO, Italy — Alessio Scarchilli, former midfielder for Torino and Lecce, reflected on his emotional journey with Torino FC during a recent interview. With more than 130 appearances in the granata jersey spanning Serie A, Serie B, and Intertoto, Scarchilli has witnessed the ups and downs of the club firsthand.
Speaking exclusively to Toro News, Scarchilli recounted his memories from the past two decades at Torino, a club marked by both remarkable recoveries and stark declines. ‘I remember the deafening silence in the locker room after our relegation; it was a difficult time with the club undergoing ownership changes,’ he said, referring to the team’s relegation in 2000.
This painful chapter hashed back memories of that fateful day when Lecce relegated Torino to Serie B. ‘It still hurts after 25 years,’ Scarchilli admitted. ‘We had a talented team but faced serious challenges.’ However, he was quick to highlight the team’s resilience, pointing out how they bounced back immediately to Serie A the following year.
Scarchilli shared fond memories of his time with the club, emphasizing his deep connection to Torino. ‘I follow all the teams I played for, but my bond with Torino is special. I have an immense regret about my injury during the season we returned to Serie A,’ he recollected. He sustained a meniscus injury in a derby against Juventus, which halted his momentum after previously being called up for the national team.
Despite the ups and downs, Scarchilli fondly remembers the April 4 commemoration in memory of the Grande Torino players, stating, ‘Every year on May 4, I reflect on the legacy of the club.’ He also acknowledged the club’s turbulent ownership, expressing concern over the instability that has plagued Torino over the years.
‘I’ve seen three different owners during my time,’ he added. ‘It’s a difficult environment to build something lasting.’ Nevertheless, he recognizes the current stability brought by President Cairo, while noting the dissent he hears from fans. ‘He brought Torino back to Serie A consistently, which is crucial in today’s football landscape,’ Scarchilli said.
On the topic of recent performance, he remarked on the team’s struggles, particularly with key player Duván Zapata absent from the lineup. ‘The team lacks motivation as the season nears its end. These last matches can become tedious, especially with Lecce being more motivated,’ he shared.
Scarchilli also reflected on his experience at Lecce, where he played on loan from Roma. ‘It was a formative time for me. We had a mix of youthful exuberance and seasoned veterans under Bruno Bolchi, which made for a surprising championship win,’ he recalled.
He paid homage to his former coach Bolchi, who he described as fatherly. ‘Bruno had a unique ability to bring people together. If players believe in their coach, they give that extra effort on the pitch,’ he stated.
Looking back at his time playing in the Intertoto Cup, Scarchilli expressed his disappointment over missing opportunities in European football. ‘Losing that return leg against Villarreal still stings,’ he reflected. ‘I understand the fans’ yearning to experience European nights at Torino again.’
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