The injury to Samuele Ricci is causing concern at Torino. Last Saturday evening, within the confines of the Allianz Stadium, Paolo Vanoli not only saw his side lose the Derby della Mole 2-0 but also witnessed the injury of the Granata midfielder. The former Empoli player hobbled off after a collision with Federico Gatti around the hour mark, visibly clutching his left ankle.
To address the situation, the Piedmontese club has yet to disclose the results of the tests conducted on the midfielder following the derby on their official channels. However, with Italy manager Luciano Spalletti replacing Ricci with Locatelli after his initial call-up, it suggests the injury is more than a ‘simple’ bruise.
The Pontedera talent will remain in Turin, embarking on a rehabilitation programme under the watchful eyes of the team supporting Vanoli daily. The hope within the Granata camp is to have their number 28 back for the next fixture against Monza on Sunday, the 24th. After all, Ricci has been the most frequently fielded player by the coach in this early part of Serie A, clocking up 1008 minutes out of a possible 1080. Following him on this list are Coco and Milinovic, both on 990, along with Masina (958) and Lazaro (944).
In short, the statistics speak plainly: Ricci’s presence in the midfield is absolutely vital for Torino’s game plan. Vanoli has placed his trust in him, and the midfielder has repaid it with consistent performances. It is no surprise, then, that in recent months there have been rumours about potential suitors for the 2001-born player. Interest has reportedly come from Lazio, Inter, and Milan in Italy, as well as City and Arsenal in the Premier League. However, these remain ‘typical’ transfer rumours, never confirmed by Ricci or his representatives, and ones the Torino fans would rather not contemplate.