Manuel Pasqual sees Fiorentina's opponents Tottenham as among the Europa League’s ‘favourites’, but believes La Viola will have their chance.
On from Coach Vincenzo Montella's deferential statements on their English rivals, the Viola defender admitted his team's prospects to continue in the tournament could be brighter.
Manuel Pasqual sees Fiorentina's opponents Tottenham as among the Europa League’s ‘favourites’, but believes La Viola will have their chance.
On from Coach Vincenzo Montella's deferential statements on their English rivals, the Viola defender admitted his team's prospects to continue in the tournament could be brighter.
“It's going to be a battle because we're up against one of the favourites to win the whole tournament,” Pasqual has said in today's Press conference.
“It's an important game and we mean to play it at our best. We're here to take our chances, we want to keep going on.
“We're up against a difficult team, but our intention is to make progress simultaneously in the Europa League, in the Italian Cup and in Serie A.”
The 32-year-old was also asked whether Fiorentina would be weaker in the absence of Juan Cuadrado, who was sold to Chelsea in January.
“I think Cuadrado was replaced in the best of ways by [Mohamed] Salah.
“He is an excellent player who has integrated himself right away. Let's hope he keeps this up.
“[Tottenham striker] Harry Kane burst on to the scene in a positive way. We'll do everything we can to stop him – he's one of Tottenham's best players.
“As for Mario Gomez, the fact that he's back to scoring isn't thanks to me.
“He was hit by injuries and it took him time to recover his full form. Now Fiorentina can count on a great striker.”
Finally, the Italy international hinted at his future with his club.
“This certainly won't be my last match of this kind for La Viola…”