Fiorentina are set to begin their journey in the new single-group format of the Conference League with a relatively manageable challenge as they welcome Welsh side The New Saints to the Stadio Artemio Franchi. Raffaele Palladino’s Viola side are eager to secure their first three points after a challenging start to the season.
In goal, Pietro Terracciano is likely to replace David de Gea, who may be rested for this fixture. The defense is expected to line up in a back three formation, featuring Dodo Kayode, Lucas Martinez Quarta, and Cristiano Biraghi. Marin Pongracic is still not fully fit and may not be risked for this match.
The midfield will see some adjustments as well. Fabiano Parisi and Dodô are set to occupy the wing-back positions, providing width and support in both attack and defense. In the center of the park, Rolando Mandragora is poised to make his return to the starting lineup, partnering with Youssef Adli.
The attacking trio behind the striker is expected to consist of Jonathan Ikoné and Riccardo Sottil, with the latter’s inclusion confirmed by Palladino in his pre-match comments. These two will likely support Lucas Beltran, who is set to lead the line for the Viola.
Notably, some key players are set to start on the bench, including Moise Kean, Andrea Colpani, and Albert Gudmundsson. This rotation strategy suggests that Palladino is looking to balance his squad’s workload while still fielding a competitive team in the Conference League.
Probable Fiorentina lineup: (3-4-2-1): Terracciano; Kayode, Moreno, Biraghi; Dodò, Adli, Mandragora, Parisi; Ikoné, Sottil; Beltran. Manager: Palladino.
Probable The New Saints lineup: (4-3-3): Roberts, Woollam, Davies, Bodenham, Marshall; Smith, Redmond, D. Williams; Holden, Wilson, Cieslewicz. Manager: Harrison.
