Cesare Prandelli sees ‘similarities’ with his first Fiorentina era, but they’ll have it tough against an Atalanta side at the ‘vanguard.’
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The Viola have struggled badly this season, and Prandelli replacing Beppe Iachini hasn’t made much difference so far.
Cesare Prandelli sees ‘similarities’ with his first Fiorentina era, but they’ll have it tough against an Atalanta side at the ‘vanguard.’
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The Viola have struggled badly this season, and Prandelli replacing Beppe Iachini hasn’t made much difference so far.
“We are up against one of the best teams in Italy, who are physically and tactically at the vanguard,” said Prandelli in his press conference.
“We must go into this without thinking we’re some sacrificial lamb to the slaughter. I always said even the best teams are not perfect, so we need to be sharp to make the most of their moments of difficulty.
“It is important that Fiorentina are confident, because there will be moments when we can hurt Atalanta.”
Gaetano Castrovilli is available after treatment for an injury, while Jose Callejon is working his way to full fitness.
Nikola Milenkovic’s last-gasp goal gave Fiorentina a point against Genoa last week and Prandelli sees that as a sign of things to come.
“That proves this team wants to change, so it’s a confidence-booster. If we had lost that game, it would’ve been very much undeserved. I showed the team footage of how everyone celebrated on the bench and in the stands, not just the players, so the lads know they are not alone.”
Despite criticism from President Rocco Commissio, Prandelli keeps his eye on the prize.
“I do see some similarities between this side and my first Fiorentina spell, as there is long-term planning. The President comes from a different culture, we respect that, but Joe Barone has become a fine director and keeps everyone fully informed.”