Fiorentina‘s loss against Olympiacos in the Conference League Final hurt Fiorentina and their fans more than West Ham last season, writes Lorenzo Bettoni.
Many thought the time for redemption had finally come for Fiorentina who won their last major trophy in 2001 under an emerging Italian coach, Roberto Mancini.
A year ago, they had lost a Coppa Italia Final to Inter and another Conference League Final against West Ham. But this time, it was supposed to be different.
Coach Vincenzo Italiano was confident that the team had more experience than last season. On the contrary, the Tuscans’ performance against Olympiacos was way more disappointing than a year ago, even if the defeat came in the same painful way.
Not a single Viola fan on social media or in the comments sections of the many specialised Fiorentina sites in Italy is happy with the players’ performance or attitude.
Conference League: Olympiacos hurt Fiorentina more than West Ham
The likes of Nico Gonzalez, Andrea Belotti, Arthur and Giacomo Bonaventura failed to impress last night.
Overall, fans blame their players for not showing an adequate attitude and commitment in the most important game of the season.
Fans in Athens did not hide their discontent after the final whistle last night, and while, a year ago, Fiorentina had played on par with a tricky English team like West Ham, this time around, the task seemed easier. Olympiacos didn’t show great quality against the Tuscans and even if they were playing at home, Fiorentina should have done more to create trouble for the Greek side.
Furthermore, the Hammers were the favourite to lift the trophy last season, while this time, Fiorentina seemed the better team before kick-off, and there was the confidence they would end their trophyless run.
The Viola suddenly lost their identity in Athens; they played long balls for strikers rather than relying on quick, vertical passes as they usually do under Italiano. Of course, Olympiacos’ tactical approach did not help Fiorentina, but Italiano didn’t have a plan B to turn things around so last night’s loss was even more disappointing than last year’s defeat to West Ham.
A new cycle will start now at the Stadio Franchi, where Italiano is set to leave alongside a few players.
Belotti will return to Roma, Arthur will go back to Juventus, Nico received a few offers over the last two years and the same is expected this season. It’s time for President Rocco Commisso to make key decisions after another colossal disappointment.
Conceded one because of a woeful Penalty and then beaten right at the death. More of a kick in the balls than last night. At least Fiorentina kinda turned up last season. And last season they were playing a beautiful brand of football. Last night they were flat. Almost expecting to lose.