Raffaele Palladino admits he would like to keep Sofyan Amrabat at Fiorentina, while ‘the club will decide’ over Nico Gonzalez after the season began with a stalemate.
The Viola opened their Serie A season this evening with a 1-1 draw away to Parma at the Stadio Tardini, as Cristiano Biraghi’s audacious free kick cancelled out the Dennis Man opener.
They held on for a point in stoppages when down to 10 men for the Marin Pongracic dismissal and with Wylan Cyprien missing a sitter.
“There is a lot new here, new tactical principles, different players, so it will take time and patience,” said Palladino in his press conference.
“We did some very positive things today, while others need work. I am not worried, it will just take time and I liked the team spirit against a quick Parma side. This team was used to defending with units, whereas I ask for more individual duels. We’re still under construction.”
Palladino used Amrabat, but not Nico Gonzalez
Some of Palladino’s choices were surprising, as Amrabat was in the starting XI despite being linked with a move to Atletico Madrid or Manchester United. Does this mean there might be a future for the Morocco international in Florence?
“I really like him, he’s a good lad and we’ve created a good rapport. He is honest and sent signals to me and to Fiorentina, putting himself at our disposal from the first day. Transfer speculation is normal, he is a player of a certain level, but he and the club will decide his future.
“I personally hope that I can continue to work with him, as he is a great player.”
If Amrabat is to remain at the Stadio Franchi, then he will need to sign a new contract, as his current deal only runs to June 2025.
Another player reportedly on the verge of an exit towards Juventus or Atalanta is Nico Gonzalez, who was not even in the squad at the Stadio Tardini.
“I really like him, we talked often over the last few days,” added Palladino.
“We know that he has a lot of offers. I will not get involved, the transfer market is open and the club will decide.”
Fiorentina did start several of their new signings, including Moise Kean and Andrea Colpani.
“We had quite a few crosses today, but they were often not precise. I am pleased with Kean’s performance, he fought to the end and sacrificed himself. I am convinced he will score goals.”