Fiorentina has returned from Spain following their 2-1 first-leg defeat to Betis in the Conference League semi-finals. However, Gaetano Ranieri`s second-half goal ensures the tie remains alive for the return leg next Thursday at the Franchi stadium. A social media message, likely echoing the team`s sentiment, stated, “It`s not over, we believe,” encapsulating the positive mindset among the players.
Coach Vincenzo Palladino`s squad conducted a training session at Sevilla`s sports complex before heading back to Florence, leaving them with minimal time to prepare for Sunday`s crucial away match at the Stadio Olimpico against Roma. This fixture is a significant direct clash in their pursuit of a Champions League qualification spot for next season.
Palladino is well aware of the challenges ahead, needing to manage the squad`s physical and mental fatigue alongside several notable absences. Defenders Dodô is recovering from a minimally invasive appendectomy and has reportedly begun running, aiming to regain fitness potentially in time for the upcoming Betis game. Midfielder Danilo Cataldi is also sidelined after suffering a muscular issue in the first half of the previous match; his condition is set to be further assessed. Furthermore, Fiorentina will be without defender Ranieri against Roma due to suspension, creating additional selection headaches.
Consequently, the Viola coach must find effective tactical adjustments and alternative player selections to field a competitive side focused on facing Roma. While Fiorentina secured a dominant 5-1 victory in the reverse fixture earlier in the season, the current Roma side presents a different challenge, having been notably revitalized under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, who is one of several figures in this match with past connections to both clubs.