Thirteen years spent in Basel, a long journey beyond Gotthard and a baggage full of experiences to take home. For Germano Vailati, FC Lugano's new goalkeeper trainer, the return to Ticino has the flavor of origins and belonging. "It meant a lot to come back to Ticino," he says. "I had a long journey in Basel, where I experienced intense years and also became attached to those colors, but you never forget your origins. It feels good to be back."
A return that takes on special value for someone who, like him, grew up in the HCL nursery. "The connection with Lugano is rooted since childhood. I did all my youth here up to the first team. To meet again so many people I knew, like Cao Ortelli - who was my coach in the Under 16 and today works alongside me - is something extraordinary, a great honor."
After his long journey with Basel, Vailati brings to Cornaredo a method and vision matured through years of working in different contexts. "I feel like I left Ticino with a little bag and came back with a suitcase full of experience. I've been lucky enough to get to know different realities, in French and German-speaking Switzerland, and now I want to put everything I've learned at the service of Lugano."
In his daily approach, the human aspect remains central. "For me, it is fundamental to create a peaceful environment, with motivated and disciplined boys. The pleasure of being on the field comes from the quality of the work: if you work well, you also have fun."
Today, more than 20 years after that young goalkeeper left Cornaredo to build a career beyond Gotthard, Vailati feels like a matured man and professional: "I have changed a lot. I have accumulated a lot of experience and I try to treasure it, putting everything at the service of the team. In soccer, as in life, you also grow through mistakes: I made some too, but they were part of my path. Now I try to pass on to the boys what I have learned, knowing that they too will have to make mistakes to improve."
Finally, a thought to the fans: "It was good to see so many familiar faces at the stadium again. I hope to see more and more people in Cornaredo: the club is working well, there is enthusiasm, many families and children. The 12th man always makes a difference, so the more of us, the better."
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH GERMANO VAILATI 👇