Matija Nastasic is ‘in love’ with Florence and so glad to be back at Fiorentina after a nine-year absence, partnering fellow Serbian Nikola Milenkovic.
The defender already played for the Viola in 2011-12, with two goals in 29 competitive appearances for the club, before making the €15.2m move to Manchester City.
After Schalke 04’s relegation, he was released for a minimal fee to come full circle to the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
“I am very happy to be back here nine years since I left for England,” Nastasic told the official Fiorentina website.
“I was in love with this city and am so happy to return with my family. Clearly, the players have changed, but I still know some people in the staff and it’s wonderful to see them again.”
Nastasic is the replacement for captain German Pezzella, who completed his transfer to Real Betis this week for circa €4m.
He already knows his new defensive partner well, as Nikola Milenkovic is a fellow Serbia international.
“I spoke to Nikola, he told me how things work here nowadays and I am ready to help the team. Forza Viola!”
Nastasic will have to wait for his debut, as he is not in the squad for tomorrow’s Serie A trip to Roma.
⚜️👊#ForzaViola 💜 #Fiorentina pic.twitter.com/BnKPjM8FXV
— ACF Fiorentina (@acffiorentina) August 21, 2021