FIRENZE, APRIL 18 – “I wish this season would never end.” Raffaele Palladino`s sentiment confirms the atmosphere of satisfaction within and around Fiorentina, who will be in the Conference League semi-finals for the third consecutive season. “This time we want to achieve our dream,” posted Robin Gosens on social media. The qualification obtained last night against Slovenian side Celje was harder-fought than expected, but in the end, the objective was achieved thanks to the goal from the usual Moise Kean, his 23rd goal of the season for Viola, who is increasingly confirming himself as a leader and driving force. President Rocco Commisso declared last night to Sky that he will speak with the striker, who has attracted interest from major international clubs, by Monday. These clubs are not deterred by the 52 million release clause inserted by the player and his entourage last summer when signing the contract with the Viola club. The anticipation is therefore growing for this meeting, as the owner will accompany the team for the match in Cagliari on Monday at 3 PM and will try to convince Kean to stay in Florence for the upcoming season, which will also be the World Cup season. In the meantime, Palladino is already preparing for the trip to Cagliari because Europe also passes through the league, and Fiorentina is still in the running for a European placement. Compared to the Conference League match (reaching the semi-finals has so far earned the club around 10 million euros), the coach will have Dodo, Zaniolo, and Moreno back available, who were suspended against Celje, as well as Ndour and Pablo Marì, who were excluded from the UEFA list.
Therefore, some changes are expected compared to the line-up fielded last night, although many starters are still expected to play. Among them, David De Gea, one of the key players of the Viola team, has already become a fan favorite thanks to his saves and charisma. The Spanish goalkeeper spoke to the Lega Calcio channels: “I wanted to play in Serie A, and when I learned that Fiorentina wanted me, I considered it a good proposal. It all happened very quickly; it was love at first sight. I am very happy here; I came to help the team with my experience and be an example for the youngsters. Palladino? He played until recently, he is close to all of us players, he works hard, has clear ideas, he is young but good. How much did being without a club for a year weigh? I always felt confident because I am mentally strong.”