Despite Fiorentina`s lackluster start to the Serie A season, manager Stefano Pioli remains optimistic about his team`s prospects. Following a goalless draw with local rivals Pisa, Pioli insists he observed “positive signs” from his squad.
Fiorentina`s campaign has been disappointing thus far, with the team yet to secure a victory after five matches, managing only three draws and suffering two defeats. In the recent match against Pisa, Fiorentina had two goals disallowed for offside, while their opponents also had a goal ruled out for handball.
This Tuscan Derby marked the first Serie A encounter between the two sides in 34 years, with their last meeting dating back to a Serie B clash in 1994.
Pioli Emphasizes Positive Aspects
“We were perhaps only missing the goal,” Pioli stated in a post-match interview. “It was a challenging match, very tense with many fouls, which is expected in a long-awaited derby. Both teams are experiencing a difficult start to the season, and we certainly need to improve our attacking play, although we made efforts throughout the game.”
The manager acknowledged areas for improvement, saying, “We need to concede fewer opportunities to our opponents, but I did observe positive elements. It`s a tough period, and we need to gradually overcome it, but the indicators are encouraging.”
However, Fiorentina supporters seem to disagree with Pioli`s assessment, as they expressed their disappointment by jeering the team after the final whistle in Pisa.
Pioli remained steadfast in his belief, stating, “We must continue to have faith in our approach. The team is focused and motivated. Naturally, they were disappointed not to win the derby, but we need to persist in our efforts and strengthen our team unity.”
Looking ahead, Fiorentina faces a busy schedule with their Conference League campaign starting next week against Sigma Olomouc, followed by crucial Serie A matches against Milan and Roma.
“We need to approach one game at a time,” Pioli concluded. “The Conference League is one of our objectives for this season.”