Vincenzo Italiano explains why he is starting Matija Nastasic against Inter and wants Fiorentina to ‘enjoy’ their football.
It kicks off at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT) at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
“I am glad that Dusan Vlahovic said he is enjoying his football, because that is what it’s all about,” the coach told DAZN.
“If you don’t enjoy yourself, it becomes too stressful and difficult. If this is how Vlahovic enjoys himself, then he’ll achieve great things in this sport.”
Italiano opted to give Nastasic his first start this evening against reigning Serie A champions Inter, with Marco Benassi at right-back.
“It’s tough when there are three games in a week, so it’s important to rotate the squad and help everyone stay at peak fitness.
“Nastasic is in good shape now, he’s pushing in training and deserves this opportunity.”
ITALIANO, Perché ho scelto Nastasic. Vlahovic… https://t.co/zyNW5KSxAB
— Firenzeviola.it (@firenzeviola_it) September 21, 2021
Credit to him for playing well and making sure Inter didn’t play in the first half but soon he will need to learn that a match lasts for 90+ minutes. Although he showed to stop Inter press them with intensity and whatever necessary to prevent them for completing even simple passes in their own half. But obviously to do it for 90+ minutes that’s a different story altogether.