Palladino: defeats can make Fiorentina ‘stronger’, Kean needs ‘rest’

Fiorentina coach Raffaele Palladino shouts encouragement from the touchline during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Fiorentina at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 10, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino admitted he has experienced some ‘unpleasant days’ in the wake of his side’s third consecutive Serie A defeat, but insisted that their journey has also plenty of ‘positives’ and he doesn’t want to ‘throw everything away’.

The Viola picked up their eighth league defeat of the season by losing 1-0 at the hands of Verona, dropping to sixth in the standings, although either Milan or Bologna could leapfrog them on Thursday if they take all the three points in their rescheduled match at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.

Palladino has come under scrutiny due to his team’s inconsistency, particularly since the turn of the year, but he remarked how a ‘revolution’ in terms of personnel change both last summer and in January didn’t make things easier for him.

Palladino: Fiorentina will ‘turn things around’, negativity ‘exaggerated’

“These last few days have been unpleasant,” Palladino said at a press conference ahead of Fiorentina’s Serie A clash against Lecce on Friday.

“Losing in that manner hurts, and we need to analyse everything—why we lost and the negative trend we’re experiencing. Together with the team, we’ve analysed, discussed, and examined things from every angle.

“We’ve also been working hard on the pitch. We want to get out of this situation with all our energy and resources. I’m sure the players will give everything they have on Friday to turn things around.

“Defeats should make you stronger inside, and that’s what matters to me. As for the president, no, I haven’t spoken with him. I’ve been focused on the team, especially with a short week ahead. But I will surely get the chance to speak with him.

“We had a poor second half in Verona, though we tried in the first, even if we were ineffective up front. We also attempted to use the wide areas, but beyond tactics, what matters to me is that the team steps onto the pitch with spirit, energy, and a strong mindset to overcome this moment.

“We’ve worked on specific aspects, but changing things doesn’t mean much if the mentality isn’t right. That’s what we’re focusing on. I’ve seen the players motivated and determined—they know Friday’s game is very important, and I’m confident we’ll turn things around.”

Palladino has faced criticism for several reasons, including failing to integrate January signings effectively, something that ‘always requires time’ in his opinion.

“I could respond in many ways, but honestly, I don’t even want to deny it,” Palladino continued.

“I don’t read or let these things affect me. I’m here because I believe it’s right to take responsibility for the good of Fiorentina.

“We need to put things into context. This season has been somewhat of a revolution—50% of the squad changed in the summer. We had difficulties in August and September but overcame them through hard work, achieving great results.

“Then, in January, we had another mini-revolution, which always requires time, effort, and patience. You can’t just throw in new players and expect everything to click immediately.

“Yes, we’re facing challenges—this is a fact. But 20 days ago, we beat Inter 3-0, and everything seemed perfect. Now, the criticism and negativity feel exaggerated.

“In the last five years, Fiorentina have never been sixth after 26 rounds or had these defensive numbers. Of course, we accept criticism—we’re not celebrating—but we need to recognise both the journey we’re on and the potential we have.

“It would be a shame to throw everything away without acknowledging the positives. That’s what bothers me. I know where this team can go and how much work we put in. Losing hurts, and I’m the first to feel it, but the team needs time. We’re also dealing with injuries, but we’re determined to turn things around.”

Palladino: Kean ‘needs rest’, I work day and night for Fiorentina

How is Moise Kean after being hospitalised following an incident in the last match?

“He suffered a head trauma,” Palladino explained.

“He’s feeling better but needs some rest. In the coming days, the necessary evaluations will be made to determine when he can resume training. The doctor is handling it, but we hope to have him back as soon as possible.”

Does Palladino feel abandoned by the club?

“Not at all! I had lunch with the director (Pradè) just half an hour ago,” he claimed.

“We’re all in the same boat, including you journalists. If Fiorentina struggle, everyone does. I have a strong relationship with the director—there’s mutual respect, dialogue, and friendship.

“If you don’t believe it, what can we do? Should we come here together? I swear, the bond with the club is solid. If results don’t come, it’s fair that the coach is criticised and the club evaluates the situation.

“You grow through challenges. At Monza, everything was relatively smooth for two years, but now I’m experiencing a moment of real growth for myself and my staff.

“I work day and night for Fiorentina, and I’ll give my all. We’ve already fallen twice this season, and now we want to rise again. This team has shown it can do that.

“Some teams that finished well ahead of Fiorentina last season are now below us, yet they’re praised for having a great season. We’re sixth, and it’s all negative—it doesn’t make sense. We’re on the right path.”