Vanoli: ‘Fiorentina need experience and balance’ against rivals Juventus
FLORENCE, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 20: Head coach Paolo Vanoli manager of ACF Fiorentina reacts anf Franco Mastantuono of ACF Fiorentina during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and SSC Napoli at Stadio Artemio Franchi on September 20, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Paolo Vanoli explains some of his unexpected Fiorentina picks against Juventus, insisting they need ‘experience’ to control this very important fixture.
It kicks off at the Stadio Artemio Franchi at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).
This is never a regular fixture due to the bitter history between the two clubs, which is why the Viola are so pleased with their recent results against their rivals.
They are unbeaten against Juventus since April 2024, managing two wins and as many stalemates.
Vanoli advice for Fiorentina
“I experienced this game as a player and a coach, I always tried to explain to the players what it means to wear this jersey, especially in a fixture like this,” Vanoli told DAZN Italia.
“We need to represent it proudly in every game, above all one like this where we can write history.”
Pedro Goncalves is a surprising pick, while Christ Inao Oulai is another unexpected starter instead of ex-Juventus midfielder Niccolò Fagioli.
“When I talk about balance, it also means mental strength. Goncalves is accustomed to this type of pressure, so I hope his experience can help him to handle the role. However, the most important thing the whole team needs is courage.
“A player cannot be 100 per cent in every game, sometimes he needs a breather to recapture his sharpness. Oulai deserved an opportunity, he had very different characteristics, but I would say neither Oulai nor Fagioli are traditional playmakers,” explained Vanoli.
“We are a team built to keep the ball and I like to defend with the ball at our feet, whereas sometimes we get a little over-excited and try to attack at all times.”
Fiorentina have had another chaotic campaign, as Fabio Grosso was sacked on September 6 after just four competitive games, bringing Paolo Vanoli back to the Stadio Franchi.
This initially brought a boost, then two points from five rounds until Monday’s 4-2 success away to troubled Sassuolo.
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