The new head coach was presented at the Mapei Football Center after replacing Alberto Aquilani, who was dismissed following five consecutive league losses. D'Aversa has been appointed until June 2027 and faces the task of improving a side that has struggled defensively.
“I am happy and proud to have been given this opportunity and to represent a club that has shown tremendous growth over the years,” D'Aversa said. “I am also pleased to take charge of a very good team that has encountered some difficulties recently. I hope it can demonstrate its real qualities.
“Now we have to work to make that happen as quickly as possible.”
The former Parma and Torino coach was asked whether he intended to retain a back four or consider switching to a three-man defence. He insisted that the formation would be less important than the mentality and principles he wanted to establish.
“Regardless of whether we play with a back four or a back three, the concepts are more important,” he explained. “We must approach every opponent with the utmost respect. This team has technical quality, but if you do not win your individual duels and show determination, everything becomes more difficult.”
Sassuolo sporting director Francesco Palmieri acknowledged that the club's decision to change coach had been influenced by more than the results.
“Unfortunately, in the last few matches we did not see the attitude we expected,” he said. “We have conceded 30 goals and have the worst defence in Europe. We decided that a change was necessary, and I am delighted Roberto has arrived.
“People can talk as much as they like, but now we have to work and approach the rest of the championship with the right determination.”
D'Aversa believes confidence is a major part of the problem, but insists the players must accept their share of responsibility.
“The team felt responsible, quite rightly, because the coach has paid the price, but I do not believe changing the coach is enough to solve everything,” he said. “The players must feel that they are the first people responsible.
“They were low in morale. When we come to training, working must be our profession. I want us to arrive with enthusiasm, with the desire to train and resolve the problems.”
He also identified defensive organisation and individual battles as immediate priorities.
“When you arrive at a team that is currently the worst defence, that is the area to improve. But I am not talking about one department, I am talking about the whole team. Improvement starts with the individual duel. It is a mental issue, not a question of the formation.”
D'Aversa's first league assignment will be against Genoa on November 22, when Sassuolo return to action hoping their managerial change can produce an immediate response.