The Tuscan derby promises to be an entertaining one, with high-flying Empoli still unbeaten, while Fiorentina will be looking to build on their first win of the season against Lazio.
Empoli are expected to maintain their effective attacking duo of Colombo and Esposito up front, with Ardian Ismajli leading a formidable backline that has allowed only four goals in their first five Serie A matches.
Fiorentina may give Gudmundsson his first start, potentially invigorating their offense. The combination of the Icelandic forward and Moise Kean, who has a history of scoring against Empoli, could be key for the away side’s offensive strategy.
Injury concerns plague both teams. Empoli will be without several players, notably Szymon Zurkowski and Tyronne Ebuehi. Meanwhile, Fiorentina are uncertain about the availability of Marin Pongracic and Rolando Mandragora, though they remain hopeful the pair will be fit to play.
Probable Empoli lineup: (3-5-2): Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Grassi, Henderson, Fazzini, Pezzella; Esposito, Colombo. Manager: D’Aversa
Probable Fiorentina lineup: (3-4-2-1): De Gea; Quarta, Comuzzo, Biraghi; Dodô, Cataldi, Bove, Gosens; Colpani, Gudmundsson; Kean. Manager: Palladino
