The time for action has arrived. After two years of competing in European finals, Raffaele Palladino’s mission now turns to the Conference League, with the first challenge set against Hungary’s Puskas Akademia at Franchi Stadium tomorrow at 20:00. Is victory finally within reach? “There is excitement and adrenaline,” says the Fiorentina coach. “Tomorrow we need to be energized, focused, and motivated. We want a great performance, and I have no doubts: the players have the right attitude. The Conference League is very important to us; we are determined to progress and bring enthusiasm to Florence.”
This will be Palladino’s first experience in Europe. “It’s an honor to be part of it, and I know that managing it will be different from just focusing on league and cup commitments. Our squad isn’t fully complete yet, but the guys are giving their all, and I trust them: those who take the field will give everything for the team.” When discussing Amrabat, he stated, “He is part of Fiorentina, available and fully focused. If he plays, he will give his all for this shirt.”
Palladino also addressed the ongoing transfer interest in Nico Gonzalez from Juventus, though Fiorentina is firm in their stance. “I have a great relationship with Nico; he is genuine and sincere. This is a market-related issue, and it’s incomprehensible to have it open while we are competing. It’s a personal matter between him and the club, and they are in discussions. I know I have professionals who will focus solely on the game once it’s time to step onto the pitch.”
As for Beltran, who Italiano viewed as a second striker, Palladino commented, “I haven’t seen much of him yet, but I like how he has integrated into training. He can play both as a forward and as an attacking midfielder in our formation, although we haven’t finalized his position yet. He is a very intelligent player and understands the game well.”
Regarding De Gea, he noted, “He needed time to adjust, but he has shown a strong work ethic, even putting in extra hours off the field. It’s possible he will start tomorrow. Could we switch to a back four? We are currently set up for a three-man defense, and the club is working towards that.”
Looking ahead to the match against Puskas Akademia, Palladino remarked, “They are a formidable team, currently leading their league, progressing in their preparations. They score many goals and concede few, often playing in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation, and they excel in transitions. We aim to advance in the best possible way: we will need to be smart.”
On the topic of the transfer market, he compared it to planning a journey, saying, “If you know the car you have and how much fuel is in it, you can plan your trip. But if you don’t know what car you have yet, you have to wait. We’ll see how the market unfolds; nothing is set in stone regarding our formation. The key is to field the best possible Fiorentina.”
Luca Ranieri, one of the team’s ‘senators’, also shared his thoughts. “The stadium renovations? Yes, it feels different. For a while this year, it will be like this, but I know that whoever is there will do their part to keep the team and fans united. As for my first game, being sidelined is tough—especially after a suspension last year. I can’t wait to get started. Losing three finals in two years hurts, and this summer has been hard. In Athens, I was marked by the player who scored, which made it even harder to deal with. As for my contract renewal, it’s all sorted, and I’m happy to be here. After eleven years, I will always honor this shirt.”