Palladino: ‘Mature Fiorentina with right attitude, but no Biraghi row’ | OneFootball

Raffaele Palladino saw a ‘show of maturity and the right attitude’ from Fiorentina to crush LASK 7-0 in the Conference League, but insists there was ‘no row’ with Cristiano Biraghi.

The Viola swept LASK away like a tornado at the Stadio Franchi, with Riccardo Sottil’s brace, Jonathan Ikone, Amir Richardson, Rolando Mandragora, Albert Gudmundsson and a Filip Stojkovic own goal.

On top of their run of eight consecutive Serie A victories, it really is a remarkable period of form for Fiorentina, who with this result bolstered their Conference League goal difference statistics.

“The team gave a great show of maturity and the right attitude, I really liked the spirit we had from the start,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.

“We caused all sorts of problems for our opponents and I got a good response from everyone. This victory boosts our confidence and this has to be the mentality going forward. I believe in this group and the human values of these people. They all have a great attitude in training and whoever I pick on match day always gives 100 per cent. That is the best thing for a coach.”

Palladino denies Biraghi argument reports

FLORENCE, ITALY – DECEMBER 12: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between ACF Fiorentina and LASK at Stadio Artemio Franchi on December 12, 2024 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

There was tension this week when Palladino effectively announced that Fiorentina had closed the door on captain Biraghi, who would leave in January.

“I reiterate what I said yesterday, that there have been a lot of false things said about me,” noted the coach.

“There was no row with Biraghi, but simply a confrontation between me, him and the club, so together we all made this decision for January. There is nothing more to add. My choices are for the good of Fiorentina. I think his choices should be respected too, we just need to focus on what is best for Fiorentina.”

Fabiano Parisi has also struggled for playing time, but impressed this evening against LASK, despite reports he too could be axed mid-season.

“I thought Parisi was one of the best players tonight and it was not easy for him after what had been written. I talked to him before the game and motivated him,” concluded Palladino.

“I believe in him, he gave a strong response with character and I am happy with his performance.”

Fiorentina now have 12 points in five Conference League games and are on track for a top eight finish, which would give them direct access to the Round of 16.

Unlike the Champions League and Europa League, there are only six games in this stage of the Conference League and not eight.