Raffaele Palladino feels the 0-0 draw away to Empoli is ‘two points dropped rather than one gained’ and urged Fiorentina to ‘develop a winning mentality.’
The Viola have won only one game under their new coach so far this season, 2-1 against Lazio last week, with six draws and a defeat between Serie A and the Conference League.
The old problems were back in this evening’s 0-0 Tuscan Derby stalemate away to Empoli, as they barely troubled goalkeeper Devis Vasquez.
“I expected more in attack, as we lacked sharpness for the final ball and in those duels,” Palladino confessed to Sky Sport Italia.
“We could’ve been more unpredictable and win more individual battles. The team gave its all and had a real spirit of sacrifice, we defended solidly against an opponent that is still unbeaten this season.
“I do see it as two points dropped rather than one gained, considering all that we did. We’ve got to be more ambitious and develop a winning mentality for these games. With that little bit extra, we could’ve won today.”
Palladino still tinkering with Fiorentina tactics
Albert Gudmundsson scored twice on his debut last week and secured their only victory, but today he got his first start and the team moved to a 4-2-3-1 formation.
“I like both systems, with three and four at the back. Aside from that, the principles and mentality are important,” continued Palladino.
“It is fundamental that the team recognises and applies those principles, regardless of the tactical system. We played with a 4-2-3-1 today and had some good fluidity, we had three against Lazio and then moved to four in the second half. I am overall satisfied with the way the team is growing.”
Moise Kean battled hard to win back the ball and get into good scoring positions, but his finishing let him down. Palladino was asked if the Italy international is more suited to one strike partner rather than another.
“Moise can play as a centre-forward in a trident, or with two wingers and a trequartista like Gudmundsson. He can work with everyone. He is a good player and we were determined to bring him here this summer. He is growing game by game. Physically, he is so strong, while technically he is improving and has a great attitude.
“So far this season, we have created a lot of opportunities and scored a lot of goals, but today we lacked just that little bit of determination and sharpness in the final ball.”