Hiljemark: ‘Great enthusiasm ‘ at being new Pisa coach at age 33

LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 30: Head coach of IF Elfsborg Oscar Hiljemark prior to the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between Tottenham Hotspur and IF Elfsborg at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on January 30, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

New Pisa coach Oscar Hiljemark points to Elfsborg’s performances against Roma and Tottenham as proof of why he was chosen at age 33. ‘I felt great enthusiasm.’

Alberto Gilardino was sacked last week after managing only one victory, 11 draws and 11 defeats in Serie A so far this season, leaving them rock bottom of the table.

There is little time to prepare, as the new man will make his debut on Friday when Pisa face Hellas Verona in a relegation dogfight.

Hiljemark takes over at Pisa

“I am very proud to be here. I felt a great sense of enthusiasm, but we need to start picking up points,” said Hiljemark in his press conference.

The club poached Hiljemark from Elfsborg, because he is no stranger to Italian football, having played for Palermo and Genoa during his career.

Aged only 33, the Swede becomes the youngest coach in Serie A, younger even than some of his players, and therefore with very little coaching experience.

“I had good games for my team against Roma and Tottenham in the Europa League. I’m very calm,” he said when asked about a lack of faith in his appointment.

“We must play as a team and not get downhearted when there are negative incidents. The important thing is to get the three points.”

When asked if he would stick with the three-man defence set up by Gilardino, Hiljemark confirmed he would “not be changing the tactical system.

“It is a fantastic group of players, but the situation in the table is delicate. We won’t be perfect tomorrow, obviously, as we haven’t had time in these three days to work on everything.

“What I do want to see is a team that plays together, with clear ideas, knowing what it wants to do. We’ve got to concentrate on defending, dealing with set plays, and the first pass after winning back the ball.”

Juan Cuadrado and new signing Samuel Iling Junior are in the squad, but Adrian Semper, Raul Albiol, Daniel Denoon and Isak Vural are injured.