Stefano Pioli knew it was inevitable Fiorentina fans would protest ahead of their trip to Bologna. “They expressed support and concern.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The pressure is on to turn things around after a disastrous 4-1 home defeat to Hellas Verona.
Stefano Pioli knew it was inevitable Fiorentina fans would protest ahead of their trip to Bologna. “They expressed support and concern.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The pressure is on to turn things around after a disastrous 4-1 home defeat to Hellas Verona.
“The fans expressed their feelings and recognised the good work we’d done in the first few months of the season, but also noted that recent performances were not up to par,” confessed Pioli in his Press conference.
“They showed us their support, but also their concerns and reminded us all of the pact to give our all in every game. They underlined that some matches have not been up to the standards of Fiorentina.
“We need to play it simple and be more focused on precision. We are all disappointed with the rest results and must react to the pressure that we basically put on ourselves. It was obvious that we took some games for granted.
“I also couldn’t expect to be spared criticism after that setback. I know this squad can do better and we’re in charge of our own destiny, so must work every week to earn each point.”
The January transfer window closed with several changes, including the arrival of Diego Falcinelli in exchange for Khouma Babacar to Sassuolo.
“We brought in players with characteristics we needed. Bryan Dabo is dynamic, physical and can push forward in any of the three midfield roles.
“Falcinelli is more mature compared to when I last worked with him. I don’t think either of them will play tomorrow, as it’s too early.”
Fiorentina squad for Bologna:Cerofolini, Dragowski, Sportiello; Astori, Biraghi, Bruno Gaspar, Laurini, Milenkovic, Maxi Olivera, Vitor Hugo; Badelj, Benassi, Cristoforo, Dabo, Veretout; Chiesa, Gil Dias, Eysseric, Falcinelli, Saponara, Simeone, Thereau