Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano feels the Conference League has changed him as a coach as he takes on West Ham United. ‘We slowly gained confidence and belief.’
It kicks off in Prague on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
The Viola have already been in one final this season, losing the Coppa Italia decider with Inter 2-1 on May 24, and are now preparing their first European final in over 30 years.
“At this moment, we are thinking about the full journey we had this season, starting from the play-offs against FC Twente and growing into a final,” Italiano told Sky Sport Italia.
That qualifying round for the Conference League started on August 18, so with the Coppa Italia, Serie A and this tournament as well, the Final tomorrow will be their 60th competitive match of the campaign.
“Reaching two finals in one season is incredible. The first one ended badly, but we emerged with heads held high, so tomorrow we will have the same spirit. We feel proud to play for this trophy.”
Roma won the Conference League last season, so Fiorentina are hoping to make it another Italian victory.
“I didn’t think we would get here. It was a difficult competition with another 14 games and a good level of opponent, but we slowly gained the right mentality and self-belief.
“I feel that I have changed since we started the competition. We tried not to let the away atmosphere get to us and instead always play with character. All that will be important in the final too.
“We’ve got what it takes to cause problems for West Ham, but in these situations you always need a little bit of luck too. This was my first European competition as a coach and I feel more mature too. I couldn’t wait to get into it.”
West Ham United finished mid-table in the Premier League and reached the Conference League Final after winning all but one of their matches, a 1-1 draw away to KAA Gent in the quarter-finals first leg.
“This is a team full of players with quality and talent. We must be wary, because in the final even a tiny detail could make the difference,” added Italiano.
“West Ham have a lot of height and physicality, so set plays could be an important detail.”