Pioli: ‘I don’t see tactical systems’ at Fiorentina, only principles after surprising switch to 4-4-2

Stefano Pioli outlines why Fiorentina ‘don’t see tactical systems’ as he gives Tariq Lamptey his first start in the Serie A clash with Como.

It kicks off at the Stadio Artemio Franchi at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

Pioli experiments with Fiorentina side

The Viola are still seeking their first victory of the Serie A season and have moved to four at the back, although Pioli insists that is not the right way to describe his side.

“We chose positions to defend well against a team that builds out from the back in a certain way. I don’t see tactical systems, but rather tactical principles, and we must try to create situations of danger for the other team,” Pioli told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s not just about how many strikers there are, but the way we move, seeking to combine quick passes to create those spaces when there aren’t any and have more courage. We prepared during the week, not everything will work, but we’ve got to keep that positivity and confidence, because we want a win.”

Fiorentina earned only draws against Cagliari and Torino, followed by a 3-1 home defeat to Napoli.

“The results should not weigh on us. It is a privilege to have certain expectations and pressures around us. Now we’ve got to do our talking on the pitch.”

Pioli is an admirer of Como coach Cesc Fabregas and already had a drink with him to celebrate after earning promotion from Serie A in 2024.

“He is a coach who is already doing great things, he is very young and has clear ideas, I admire that kind of focus and mentality. He can only get stronger and have a great career.”