Raffaele Palladino has handed in his resignation as Fiorentina head coach, just weeks after signing a contract extension until 2027.
According to Sky Sport Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio, the 41-year-old coach submitted his resignation on Tuesday morning, before Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on Wednesday.
Why Did Palladino Resign From Fiorentina?
While no official reason has been given for Palladino’s decision, tensions have been mounting in Florence in recent weeks.
During Fiorentina’s final home game of the season, both Palladino and sporting director Daniele Prade were targeted by ultras, who publicly called for their departures from the Stadio Artemio Franchi.
Despite moments of promise during the 2024–25 Serie A campaign, Fiorentina fell short of expectations. The club hovered around the Champions League qualification places for much of the season but ultimately finished 6th with 65 points—securing a return to the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Palladino’s Fiorentina Contract Was Recently Extended
Interestingly, Fiorentina had activated a clause to extend Palladino’s deal until 2027 just weeks ago—shortly before their Conference League semifinal second leg against Real Betis.
That makes the timing of the resignation all the more puzzling, especially given that the club seemed invested in a long-term project under the former Monza boss.
Who Could Replace Palladino at Fiorentina?
Palladino’s resignation means that Fiorentina are once again in the market for a new head coach—their fourth in as many years.
The club is eager to remain competitive both in Serie A and in Europe, having reached two Conference League finals under Vincenzo Italiano before this season’s semifinal exit.
Several familiar names could emerge as candidates. Figures like Igor Tudor, Paolo Zanetti, or even Marco Baroni, who looks set to be dismissed as head coach of Lazio, could feature on Fiorentina’s shortlist.
Bettors and fans can keep an eye on the latest managerial odds across the top Serie A betting sites, where the Fiorentina vacancy is likely to become a trending market.
Where Could Palladino Manage Next?
Palladino won’t be short of suitors. Though his stint in Florence ended in frustration, his progressive, high-pressing style has earned admiration across Italy.
His name is already surfacing in conversations about high-profile vacancies—particularly at clubs facing managerial uncertainty this summer.
One possible landing spot? Atalanta, should Gian Piero Gasperini walk away after a transformative nine-year stint in Bergamo. Palladino’s tactical DNA—wing-heavy attacks, vertical play, and emphasis on youth—aligns closely with the project Atalanta have built under Gasperini.
Read our full breakdown of who could replace Gasperini at Atalanta for more insight into Palladino’s candidacy and others in the frame.
Clubs like Lazio, who are themselves navigating a coaching change, could offer Palladino a fresh start. You can explore more possibilities in our full breakdown of who could be the next Lazio manager, where Palladino has been floated as an outside option.
