FLORENCE (ITALPRESS) – “There is great anticipation because we know how important this match is for us, for our club, for the fans, for the whole environment in Florence, we can’t wait to take the field. We have to approach it like a final. I think tomorrow can really be the turning point match because it’s those matches that give you the momentum.” This was said by violet coach Raffaele Palladino on the eve of the Conference League round of 16 return match between Fiorentina and Panathinaikos scheduled tomorrow night at the Stadio Franchi.
Palladino, who did not dispel the doubt as to who will play as a starter tomorrow in goal (“you will find out by reading the lineups”), announced the recovery of Folorunsho, with the only one unavailable, besides Bove, being the injured Colpani. So far, unexciting data from ticket presales. “I’m sure the stadium will help us. We need our fans because they have always been our charge, our energy, our strength, tomorrow we need them to pass the round, a goal that is fundamental for us.”
Moving forward would also have some bearing on the purple fate of Palladino himself. “My future is not important. What is important is the present and the future of Fiorentina. So maximum concentration on what we have to do,” the purple coach cuts to the chase.
Loaded Robin Gosens. “We analyzed the first match well, in my opinion there was that inexplicable drop that has to be accepted anyway, also because we have a second match tomorrow. We are very ready to face Panatinaikos at our best.”
His experience and leadership qualities can weigh heavily in Fiorentina’s preparation. “Even during the week I talked with the guys, if it is needed I will do it tomorrow as well. I always try to give everyone a hand.”
A way to ward off any possible negativity. “We will have to face Pana with lightness and positivity to pass the round together with our fans. We are the first to want to give positive answers to our people. We feel this responsibility and, with an open heart, I tell you that we will never back down. We will give everything. Tomorrow we will need all the love of our fans.”
Gosens insists on being optimistic. “Victories give you self-esteem and confidence. Right now we are lacking positive results. We are preparing the matches in the right way and tomorrow on the pitch we will fight until the end, hoping for a positive result.”
– Photo Ipa Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
