Reggina flies on the wings of twenty-four-year-old Antonio Panebianco, a midfielder, who can also play the role of full-back if necessary. Born in Catania, he worked his way through the Rossazzurri youth sector. He arrived in Reggio last December, signing a contract until June 30th. Last Saturday he was surprisingly fielded by Torrisi and he repaid him with a solid performance. The challenge with Igea will be special, having worn the Giallorossi shirt in the 2024-2025 season: «I returned home for a few days, but I already have my focus on the Barcelona match. There will be a hot climate, I know the environment, but we will take the field with the awareness of being strong to reach our goal.”
How much do you believe it?
«A lot, it’s forbidden to give up right now, we are in the fight and we will stay in the race because ours is a reactive group. If we managed to recover 12 points, bringing us close to the top, it means that we have professional and human values. The coach, who I know from having had him in Trapani, is someone who doesn’t give up an inch. If he sees someone listless he makes himself heard, he always demands the best from us.”
When did you find out about Reggina’s interest?
«In December, I was at Atletico 1994. As soon as I was informed that the Amaranth club intended to buy me, I immediately accepted. I am happy with the choice made. The club doesn’t make us miss anything, we are like a family and the Sant’Agata sports center is a little gem, similar to Torre del Grifo.”
Where did he make his home?
«No, in reality I live at the sports center to stay more focused. I found real friends and Di Grazia and I were together in Catania. On Saturday evening, to test the cohesion of the group, we went to dinner with our teammates, celebrating the success.”
Did you expect the title against Sancataldese?
«It took me by surprise. The coach decides the lineup by observing the daily sessions. Evidently I put him in difficulty in a positive way. We do a job that many envy us and we get paid to achieve certain goals.”
His performance on Saturday was appreciated. What is your opinion?
«I try to give my best. In the first minute I had the opportunity to score, but I hit the post. It would have been nice to score at the “Granillo”. Regardless of my performance, we gained three very important points. The result broke the deadlock in the second half, even if we could have scored right from the start.”
Are you aware that the next three matches will be crucial for the fate of the championship?
«We will face Igea, Acireale and Athletic Palermo. We will need an attentive Reggina, we will not give up an inch, we hope to give joy to our wonderful fans.”
Do you prefer 3-4-3?
«It’s a module that suits me. However, I adapt to any tactical system. For Reggina I would also go in goal.”
Do you see your future in the city of the Strait?
«Perhaps I would be honored to wear the amaranth shirt again. We will see the developments.”
What effect does seeing Mimmo Toscano on the Catania bench have on you?
«He’s a great technician and I’m doubly proud that he’s from Reggio Calabria. I hope he takes us to Serie B because Catania, like Reggio, deserves other stages.”
