Donadoni outlines Parma ambitions

New Parma boss Roberto Donadoni believes he can lift the club to a respectable finish in Serie A this season.

Donadoni replaced Franco Colomba after a poor run of results culminated in a 5-0 rout by Inter Milan on Saturday.

The 48-year-old has signed a one-and-a-half year deal with the club and believes that Parma, who sit 15th in the league standings, will do more than just survive this season.

“I think that this club should be about more than just surviving in the top flight,” Donadoni said.

“Parma’s position in the table is not so bad. I have to give credit to my predecessor Colomba, whom I regard very highly.”

“I don’t think this squad has to look over its shoulder. I’m here because I strongly believe that this team must look ahead, targeting the rivals in front of us and possibly overtaking them.”

“I was looking for a club where I could plan my work and achieve some specific goals. I’m sure I can do that here. So I can’t wait to start and meet the players, some of whom I know from the past, which is definite advantage.”

Parma are seven points above the relegation zone and just three points behind eighth-placed Catania.

Donadoni’s first match as the club’s new manager will be a home clash against Siena on Sunday.