Paulo Sousa has some injury concerns as Fiorentina prepare to host Atalanta and admits the team has “fragilities.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 11.30 UK time (10.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Football is founded on results and that naturally also dictates public opinion,” said the Viola Coach in his Press conference.
Paulo Sousa has some injury concerns as Fiorentina prepare to host Atalanta and admits the team has “fragilities.”
It kicks off on Sunday at 11.30 UK time (10.30 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“Football is founded on results and that naturally also dictates public opinion,” said the Viola Coach in his Press conference.
“You can’t argue with statistics, but whenever there are doubts, I always try to clarify them. We must all continue working together to make Fiorentina grow.
“Many of the lads who played at a very high level last season still aren’t at their peak form right now. Josip Ilicic got a knock to his left foot on international duty and we’ll see today if he’s able to train. We’ll also decide on Carlos Sanchez and Matias Vecino.
“What I seek more than anything is balance, regardless of the system or players used. We worked on this during the break for international duty and the foundations are strong, but we are also working on new variations.”
Atalanta are one point in front of Fiorentina, even if the Tuscans have a game in hand against Genoa.
“Gian Piero Gasperini knows how to work on defensive movements and counter-attacks, while his team is going through a good period of form. It’ll be important for us to do well on a technical and emotional level tomorrow.
“In Serie A there are no easy opponents, including those who on paper might seem inferior to us. That’s because they all study tactics and know how to move in order to cause problems, both individually and as a unit.
“We have certain fragilities that we can improve on to get results.”
Sousa was also asked about Federico Bernardeschi, who was used in midfield by Italy against Macedonia.
“He has to aim for the goal and always keep his eyes on the opposition net. His style of football with his back to goal still needs a lot of work.
“In that sense, moving in deeper roles could allow him more freedom to run forward or try shots from distance. Federico can become an important player for Fiorentina and the Nazionale.”