Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino addressed the media in a press conference ahead of the team’s Conference League debut against The New Saints. Following a draw against Empoli in the league, Palladino expressed his thoughts on the upcoming match and the team’s progress.
“We’re missing a few points, but that’s precisely why we want to put in a great performance tomorrow,” Palladino stated. “Against Empoli, we were solid, although we lacked a bit in the offensive phase. Tomorrow, we want to get back to smiling. Winning helps to win, and we’re trying to create this mentality. The new players are settling in, and we’re creating a group and a family. Now we must continue on this path because it’s the right one.”
Addressing the team’s current situation, Palladino said, “We’re in an emergency in defense. Pongracic is not yet at his best, and despite having trained with the group in recent days, he won’t be available. I’m fortunate to have an exceptional group: I’ll make many changes because I want to get positive responses from everyone. Moreno will start from the first minute. He’s the only center-back we have and knows the team mechanisms well.”
When asked about the formation, Palladino chose to keep his cards close to his chest: “I’d like to answer, but I prefer to maintain some mystery. I don’t want to give any advantage to the opposing team. I liked the team’s attitude.”
Regarding Albert Gudmundsson and the recent on-field discussions about penalties and free kicks, Palladino clarified, “To some, it seemed like an argument on the field. But it’s normal for a player to care about scoring and doing what’s best for the team. We’ve established hierarchies for penalties and free kicks, but it’s clear that everyone wants to contribute.”
Palladino also commended Christian Kouame for his post-match comments after the Empoli game: “I listened carefully to Kouame’s words at Empoli: he spoke like a true captain and locker room leader. I like it when a player takes responsibility.”
