Vincenzo Italiano sees Fiorentina’s Conference League qualification as a ‘masterpiece’ that was beyond their expectations, but warns his future at the club is not guaranteed.
The Viola had not qualified for a European competition since the 2016-17 season, but will be in the Conference League play-offs next term after securing seventh place in Serie A.
That was achieved thanks to a 2-0 victory over arch-rivals Juventus at the Stadio Franchi, with Alfred Duncan and Nico Gonzalez on target.
“The last few games had not been positive, so we knew that we couldn’t get it wrong today,” Italiano told Sky Sport Italia.
“I congratulate the lads and all of Florence for the way they supported us throughout the season.”
It’s a remarkable turnaround, considering Fiorentina barely escaped relegation last term and that Italiano took over after pre-season training had already begun, as Gennaro Gattuso split with the club two weeks into his tenure.
Italiano amassed over 20 more points than the Viola had managed in Serie A last season and reached the Coppa Italia semi-final.
“It is an extraordinary achievement, because we knew that we had to be different to the past, but didn’t think it’d be this different. It’s a masterpiece and we are very happy.
“You could see from the start that the team was growing and we were largely consistent in the first and second half of the campaign.”
Having said all of that, it is by no means guaranteed that Italiano will still be on the Fiorentina bench next season, as there is a buy-out clause in his contract.
“As is only right, we waited until the end of the season to discuss this and we’ll meet over the next few days. It takes two to form a marriage,” added the coach.
“We will lose some players who were here on loan or who are running down to the end of their contracts. They need to be replaced. We’ve got to bring in quality so we improve and don’t go in the wrong direction.”
.@acffiorentina I Le parole di Vincenzo #Italiano dopo la vittoria contro la @juventusfc https://t.co/taJKVHOpOE
— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) May 21, 2022
Very well deserved, congrats Viola. Though one has to wonder that had Vlahovic stayed, probably they would fare much better, as they were even in contention for fourth at one stage.
I hope he replaces Allegri
He l be absolutely ideal for Juve he’s worked with Vlad.
His playing style can get the best out of the younger players and also understands the inportance and energy they bring bring, his playing style is bang up to date.
and has more knowledge about the game in his little finger than Allegri,
What a fantastic cheaper option,
why can’t Juve see this instead of
sticking with that overpaid dummy
Why doesn’t Juventus just buy Fiorentina and absorb the entire club altogether? Wouldn’t that be easier than the constant raiding?