Vanoli: Fiorentina seeks experience and balance against Juventus

Fiorentina head coach Paolo Vanoli spoke about his surprise selections ahead of the Juventus match. Vanoli stressed that the team needs experience to keep control of this fixture, which has a long history of rivalry. The match at the Stadio Artemio Franchi kicks off at 19.45 GMT.

Fiorentina have not lost to Juventus since April 2024. In that period they have won two matches and drawn two. Vanoli said such games are not ordinary and that players must understand what it means to wear the shirt.

Pedro Gonçalves's inclusion in the starting XI stood out. Vanoli said Gonçalves is used to this kind of pressure and he hopes his experience will help him take on the role. Christ Inao Oulai starting in place of former Juventus midfielder Niccolò Fagioli was also a surprise. Vanoli said Oulai deserves a chance and noted that neither Fagioli nor Oulai are traditional playmakers.

Vanoli said the team wants to keep possession, enjoys defending with the ball, and sometimes gets too excited and keeps trying to attack non-stop. Fiorentina are going through a difficult period this season. Fabio Grosso was dismissed on 6 September after four official matches, and Paolo Vanoli returned to the Franchi.