Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino spoke to the club’s official media ahead of their upcoming match against Atalanta at the Gewiss Stadium. The coach expressed optimism about his team’s preparation and the impact of recent events.
Palladino began by discussing the international break: “I believe the break came at the right moment. We had many players arrive on the last day of the transfer market. These days have helped us get to know the late arrivals better. We’ve worked well, and I’ve seen greater unity. We’re ready for the challenge against Atalanta.”
When asked if fans could expect a different Fiorentina, Palladino responded: “The hope is to see a Fiorentina that’s growing. We’re working well, though it takes some patience to find all the automatisms and become a team as quickly as possible. Obviously, many players are new and need to adapt to the system and principles, but I’m convinced that starting tomorrow, we’ll see a Fiorentina on the rise.”
The manager also commented on the return of international players: “Those who went on national duty have returned with great positive energy because representing one’s country is a source of pride. They’re all available, which pleases me. They’re charged up, and since their return, we’ve worked together and are ready to deliver a great performance.”
Palladino was particularly moved by the recent visit from club president Rocco Commisso: “It was emotional because embracing the president was touching. He gave us so much positive energy. His charisma and words entered our hearts and minds. It was a beautiful positive energy for us. We’ll try to give him satisfaction because he’s done so much for us and for Florence.”
On facing Atalanta and their manager Gian Piero Gasperini, Palladino said: “Facing Gasperini is a great stimulus and opportunity for growth. What he’s created in Bergamo is fantastic. Winning a Europa League is incredible. They’ve become a great reality. The players follow him; he’s managed to leave his mark. Gasperini is an example for all coaches.”
Palladino expects an entertaining match: “Absolutely. I followed last season, and they were always great battles. We hope to challenge Atalanta with our team identity. It’s true we’ve never lost, but we’ve also never won. We’re going to Bergamo to try and beat Atalanta.”
Finally, the coach praised the Fiorentina fans: “There’s great empathy and harmony. We can only thank them because they’ve always been by our side. We feel indebted to them because we want to give them a victory. We’ll try to do it as soon as possible. With hard work, the victories will come soon, and we’ll dedicate them to our fans.”
