Stefano Pioli does not want Fiorentina to get distracted by the Coppa Italia semi-final, as they go head-to-head for position with Torino.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time, click here for a match preview.
“We needed the break for international duty so we could recover some energy and do specific training exercises,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Stefano Pioli does not want Fiorentina to get distracted by the Coppa Italia semi-final, as they go head-to-head for position with Torino.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time, click here for a match preview.
“We needed the break for international duty so we could recover some energy and do specific training exercises,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We’ve got everything to play for over the next four games, because three of them are on home turf, but we’ve got to start well against Torino.”
The run will include the second leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final with Atalanta on April 25, having drawn 3-3 at home.
“We have many reasons to be motivated and one of them is to make up for the ugly defeat to Cagliari and play in a style befitting Fiorentina.
“I don’t believe we risk getting distracted by the Coppa Italia, because we must try to build up a head of steam going into that game. That would also allow us to make up some lost ground in the Serie A table and prepare for the final sprint.
“Unfortunately, I was right in my predictions at the start of the season, which was that there were six teams stronger than us in the division and others like Sampdoria, Atalanta and Torino that we’d fight it out with.
“Torino reflect the ideas of their Coach Walter Mazzarri, so are physical, battling and experienced. They have always been a difficult opponent and we must make the most of the slightest error.”
Federico Chiesa is out of action after leaving the Italy squad with a muscular injury, while Edimilson Fernandes also requires a fitness test.
“Chiesa is doing better, but my focus is on getting him back to 100 per cent fitness, not just having him for April 25. The way he plays, he needs to be at 100 per cent or he isn’t anywhere near as effective.”