Nicolò Fagioli is poised to make his first start for Fiorentina in their upcoming Serie A match against Como. The former Juventus midfielder impressed in his debut appearance off the bench against Inter Milan on Monday, showcasing his quality, temperament, and excellent movement.
Gazzetta dello Sport report how Fagioli’s integration into the Fiorentina midfield has been accelerated by injuries to key players. Yacine Adli is still recovering and may only make the bench, while Danilo Cataldi’s fitness remains a concern after limited playing time in recent matches.
The surprise package in Fiorentina’s midfield has been Rolando Mandragora. Initially lower in the pecking order at the start of the season, the number 8 has become indispensable and is currently the team’s most in-form midfielder. Manager Raffaele Palladino is likely to pair Mandragora with Fagioli in the center of the park.
Fagioli’s versatility offers Palladino additional tactical options, as the 23-year-old can also operate as an attacking midfielder if needed. This flexibility could prove crucial as Fiorentina aims to secure European qualification – a goal that would trigger Fagioli’s permanent transfer from Juventus for €13.5 million.
The midfielder himself has set his sights high, stating at his presentation: “This year must be the year we win the Conference League.” With Fagioli eager to prove himself and Fiorentina pushing for European success, Sunday’s lunchtime clash against Como at the Stadio Artemio Franchi could mark the beginning of an exciting partnership in the Viola midfield.
