Empoli boss Marco Giampaolo denied he’s in the running for the Fiorentina job. “We have similar philosophies.”
It kicks off at 11.30 UK time (10.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“This is a derby and therefore a special game that stands apart from the rest of the season,” said Coach Giampaolo.
When these sides met back in November, Empoli had been 2-0 up at the Stadio Franchi only to be pegged back to 2-2 by a Nikola Kalinic brace.
Empoli boss Marco Giampaolo denied he’s in the running for the Fiorentina job. “We have similar philosophies.”
It kicks off at 11.30 UK time (10.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“This is a derby and therefore a special game that stands apart from the rest of the season,” said Coach Giampaolo.
When these sides met back in November, Empoli had been 2-0 up at the Stadio Franchi only to be pegged back to 2-2 by a Nikola Kalinic brace.
“We must have the belief in ourselves to rely on our own characteristics. Fiorentina are a strong side who play beautiful football and if you give them the opportunity to express themselves, they will put you under serious pressure.
“The Viola never kick the ball away and in that sense we have a similar philosophy. They are set out in a different tactical configuration, but they read the game the same way we do.”
Those similarities have prompted some to suggest Giampaolo will replace Paulo Sousa on the Fiorentina bench next season.
“We are talking about thin air. I am focused only on the present and I’m happy at Empoli. We have the chance today to secure Serie A safety and make our fans happy. There is a lot at stake.”
Andrea Costa is the only injury absentee for the hosts.