Catania hires Emilio Longo to lead cultural overhaul and cautious squad rebuild

Emilio Longo was appointed head coach of Serie C side Catania and outlined a project that goes beyond merely lowering the average age of the squad. He emphasized a "youth mentality" – a mindset of courage, work ethic and willingness to represent the club’s identity – stating that "young players can have an old mentality and vice‑versa". Longtogether with sporting director Varrà will first assess the current roster before making any signings, promising a prudent approach to the transfer market.

Longo also announced tactical changes, moving the team from a three‑man defence to a back four and prioritising dominant, possession‑based football. He confirmed the team will train at the Massimino facilities rather than the Cibalino, and detailed a tightly scheduled preseason programme ahead of a test match on 18 July and a Coppa Italia tie against Vicenza on 8 August.

Among the likely departures, Argentine full‑back Tiago Casasola is close to completing a move to Brescia, a transfer Longo described as a positive step both for the player and the club.