Alberto Gilardino has been officially appointed as the new head coach of Parma Calcio 1913, returning to the Italian club over two decades after starring as a prolific striker. The 2006 World Cup winner takes over a squad sitting 15th in the Serie A standings following the departure of Carlos Cuesta, signing a contract through the end of the 2026–27 season with an option for two additional years.
The Official Appointment and Contract Terms
Parma confirmed the appointment of Alberto Gilardino through an official club announcement shared across its digital channels and social networks. Gilardino signed an agreement running until the conclusion of the 2026–27 campaign, accompanied by a club option that could extend his tenure for another two seasons.
Gilardino succeeds Carlos Cuesta, who parted ways with the ducal club following a mutual agreement on his contract. The managerial change comes as Parma looks to stabilize its campaign in the top flight, currently holding four points and a single victory through the opening five matches of the Serie A season.
A Storied Return to Stadio Ennio Tardini
For Gilardino, the appointment marks an emotional and notable return to the club. Between 2002 and 2005, he made 116 official appearances for the Crociati across all competitions, netting 56 goals and capturing the affection of the Stadio Ennio Tardini faithful.
His standout performances in Emilia-Romagna triggered a transfer to AC Milan under manager Carlo Ancelotti, where he later lifted the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. Over twenty years after first arriving in Parma as a player, Gilardino steps back into the club with a completely different responsibility, tasked with steering the first team away from the lower reaches of the table.
Coaching Background and New Backroom Staff
Gilardino transitions to the Parma bench following a series of coaching experiences across the Italian football pyramid. His managerial resume includes stints with Rezzato, Pro Vercelli, Genoa, and most recently a brief spell with Pisa that concluded in February 2026.
Parma’s leadership group—including President Kyle J. Krause and CEO Federico Cherubini—finalized not only the head coach’s arrival but also the composition of his supporting staff. The club announced that Gaetano Caridi will serve as assistant manager, Francesco Valiani as technical collaborator, Antonio Bovenzi as athletic trainer, and Mirco Vecchi as match analyst.
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