Vincenzo Italiano tells Fiorentina they ‘worked hard to earn this opportunity’ in the Conference League play-offs with FC Twente and must not let it get away.
The first leg of the play-offs is at the Stadio Artemio Franchi on Thursday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT), while the return match is in the Netherlands on August 25 at 18.00 UK time (17.00 GMT).
It is the return for the Viola into UEFA competition for the first time in five years, after they finished seventh in Serie A last season.
“Tomorrow will be the most important match,” said the coach in his press conference.
“For me, as it’s my debut in Europe, to the lads who haven’t yet participated in cup competition. We worked hard last season to earn this opportunity and we want to do well.
“There will be emotion, but that has to be put aside after the opening whistle, because we need absolute concentration. It is only the first half of a match over two legs.”
FC Twente qualified with a 7-2 aggregate victory over Serbian side Cukaricki and it is important to note that in these play-offs the away goals rule does not apply.
So if the teams are tied on aggregate, it will go to extra time and even penalties.
“We know Twente are a very tough opponent who are unbeaten in a long time. They’re very organised, have a precise structure and have been working together for a while, so know exactly what they need to do on the pitch.”
This is only Italiano’s second season in the Fiorentina hot-seat, so the squad is still getting fully to grips with his 4-3-3 tactics.
“Our objective is to get the opponents to have as few shots on goal as possible and for us to produce a good number of scoring opportunities. It will be an unforgettable occasion and we need to make the most of it.”
Meanwhile, Italiano was also asked about the reports Fiorentina are looking at Feyenoord midfielder Orkun Kokcu.
“I know him, he’s very good. We know all quality players and he is one of them.”