Sampdoria’s 2021-22 campaign was a rollercoaster ride of unpredictability and drama. The club faced a season riddled with turmoil after the arrest and resignation of their president, Massimo Ferrero, in December. This unexpected turn of events left the club in a state of uncertainty, with former player and Scudetto winner Marco Lanna stepping in as the new president. To make matters worse, coach Roberto D’Aversa was dismissed in January as the team struggled to stay afloat in the relegation zone.
The arrival of Marco Giampaolo, who had previously coached Sampdoria for almost three years, brought a glimmer of hope to the club. However, the team’s struggles continued, with a mere five victories throughout the season. Despite this uninspiring performance, Giampaolo’s appointment proved to be enough to save Sampdoria from the abyss of Serie B.
A Crucial Derby Victory
One of the pivotal moments of the season was the derby victory against city rivals Genoa in late April. This hard-fought win was crucial for Sampdoria’s survival, and it provided a much-needed boost to the team’s morale. Abdelhamid Sabiri’s early goal gave Sampdoria the advantage, and goalkeeper Emil Audero’s penalty save in the dying moments of the game secured a vital three points. The victory was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination to fight for their place in Serie A.
Key Acquisitions and Injuries
Giampaolo’s arrival brought a series of strategic changes, including key acquisitions in the January transfer window. The arrival of Moroccan-born attacking midfielder Sabiri, on loan from Ascoli, proved to be a game-changer. His three goals for the club played a vital role in their survival. Stefano Sensi, on loan from Inter, also made a positive impact on the team, despite his inconsistent form.
However, the team’s struggles were exacerbated by long-term injuries to key players like Mikkel Damsgaard and Manolo Gabbiadini. These injuries put a huge strain on Giampaolo’s tactical plans, and the team’s attacking potency was significantly affected.
Candreva: A Shining Light in a Dim Season
Despite the team’s overall lackluster performance, Antonio Candreva emerged as a beacon of hope for Sampdoria. The experienced midfielder consistently displayed his talent and determination even at the age of 35. While he may have lacked the pace and stamina of his younger days, his creativity and vision were invaluable to a team desperately seeking inspiration. His stunning goal against Udinese in a thrilling 3-3 draw last October was a highlight of a season that offered few moments of joy.
A Defensive Disaster
On the other hand, Sampdoria’s defense was a source of constant frustration for fans and coaches alike. The team’s fragile backline conceded goals with alarming frequency. The culprits included Maya Yoshida, whose inconsistent performances and own goal against Juventus highlighted the team’s defensive shortcomings.
The entire back four was guilty of individual errors, leading to a season filled with disappointing results. Sampdoria’s struggles at the back were a major factor in their near-relegation.
