Stefano Pioli rides the wave of Fiorentina enthusiasm against Udinese. “We want to play football that is intense, aggressive and intelligent.”
It kicks off at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
The Viola are flying high after a 6-1 opening victory over Chievo, but that was their only game so far, as the trip to Sampdoria in Week 1 was postponed.
Stefano Pioli rides the wave of Fiorentina enthusiasm against Udinese. “We want to play football that is intense, aggressive and intelligent.”
It kicks off at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
The Viola are flying high after a 6-1 opening victory over Chievo, but that was their only game so far, as the trip to Sampdoria in Week 1 was postponed.
“I don’t fear euphoria. I feared the first match,” confessed the Coach in his Press conference.
“We spent the week focusing hard on our work and my lads have to make the most of this passionate atmosphere that surrounds us. Having the fans accompany the team bus to the stadium will be even more exhilarating and I thank them for the idea.
“It’ll take a few more games before we work out how the team has changed from last season. We want to play a style of football that is intense, aggressive and intelligent.”
That 6-1 thrashing of Chievo made some suggest Fiorentina can be the revelation of this Serie A season.
“We want to play with enthusiasm, not setting ourselves too many targets,” insisted Pioli. “It’s fundamental for such a young squad to enjoy its football and take it one day at a time.
“We kept the most sought-after players, signed quality additions and have a very young squad. Fiorentina can have a great season and we’re not holding back from that.
“I know the passion of the Fiorentina fans and now the season tickets have sold so well, it’s up to us. We must prove we’ve got what it takes to defend these club colours.”
Udinese have Spanish tactician Julio Velazquez in charge for his first Serie A experience.
“I’m not sure what to expect from Udinese and I didn’t really know the Coach before he came here, but if Udinese hired him, then he must have qualities. They seem more focused on pace than passing in attack, while they look after their defensive movements.”
Jordan Veretout is suspended in a moment of great timing, as his wife Sabrina gave birth to their second child Kaylie in Florence on Saturday morning.