After the ecstasy of Champions League qualification in 2010 followed immediately by the agony of relegation, Sampdoria have established themselves once more in the top flight. Since their promotion back to Serie A a couple of seasons ago, they have been about as safe a mid-table side as it’s possible to be.
2014-2015 Serie A preview: Solid Sampdoria dream of top half
After two seasons in mid-table, Sampdoria will be keener than ever to make their way into the top half of Serie A.
Marco Luzzani
UC Sampdoria:Genova, Liguria Last season: 12thCoach: Siniša Mihajlović
A modest summer has seen relatively little transfer activity; Gonzalo Bergessio coming in from relegated Catania is the biggest-money move, whilst the expected departure of Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero has been anticipated with the loan arrival of Emiliano Viviano from Palermo.
Key player
Still only 22, Pedro Obiang will once again be the focal point of the Sampdoria midfield, providing he isn't sold before the transfer window shuts (Napoli, West Ham and Queens Park Rangers are reportedly keen). For the past three seasons the Spaniard has been the lynchpin in the blucerchiati side; his tackling ability, passing and his sheer power helping the midfield tick over.
Key departures and arrivals
In: Gonzalo Bergessio, José Campaña, Fabrizio Cacciatore, Alfred Duncan, Emiliano Viviano.
Out: Shkodran Mustafi, Renan, Birkir Bjarnason, Massimo Volta, Gaetano Berardi.
Reasons to watch
When winter rolls around, coach Sinisa Mihajlović sports a wonderful cardigan -- and matching scarf -- on the touchline in Sampdoria team colours. Unfortunately, however, I can confirm that it is currently unavailable on the club’s online shop.
Where they might finish
Another season in mid-table, with a chance of poking their noses just into the top half.
See More:
