In a recent interview with TeleMia, Fiorentina’s president, Rocco Commisso, has made it clear that he is fully committed to supporting manager Raffaele Palladino. He discussed a variety of critical topics, including the team’s current performance this season, plans for a new stadium, and upcoming transfer dealings that could shape the future of the club.

Commisso acknowledged that there has been some external pressure to part ways with Palladino earlier in the season. However, he remains resolute in his decision to keep the coach at the helm. “Up to a certain point, we started making mistakes… Some people from outside wanted to send the coach away, but I kept him, of course,” Commisso stated. He expressed renewed optimism following the team’s recent victory against Lazio, viewing it as a potential turning point in their campaign to improve their standings in Serie A.

The ambitious Fiorentina owner laid out his aspirations for the club, which is currently positioned sixth in Serie A. “We’re in sixth place and we hope to get as high as possible, aiming for the Europa League and maybe even the Champions League,” he expressed. Commisso also highlighted the team’s remarkable journey in cup competitions, particularly their appearance in the Conference League final last season, and he hopes to replicate that success in the current campaign.

When asked about the development of a new stadium, Commisso expressed his frustration with the political environment in Italy that hampers progress in stadium construction. “In Italy, with the politics there, you can’t move forward with stadiums. They’re renovating it now, but the owner remains the municipality,” he explained. He contrasted this situation with the Viola Park training center, which he owns entirely, describing it as “one of the largest in Europe,” a facility he believes will greatly benefit the club’s future.

Commisso also took the opportunity to discuss his philanthropic initiatives, mentioning the club’s collaboration with a team in Marina di Gioiosa and his personal contributions to educational causes. “When possible, we help them with balls and shirts. Things I’ve done all my life, I’ve given over 3,500 scholarships to universities and kids who want to try to come to America,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community.

Reflecting on his journey with Fiorentina, Commisso emphasized his motivation for returning to Italy, stating, “I came back to Italy to give something to my country and to the sport that has given me so much: football.” This dedication to both his homeland and the sport underlines his commitment to making Fiorentina a competitive force in Italian football.

The interview also delved into Fiorentina’s transfer dealings, with Commisso praising the club’s successful transactions with Juventus, particularly the significant sales of players like Vlahovic, Chiesa, and recently Gonzalez. He confirmed the recent acquisition of Kean for €15 million, calling it a beneficial deal that will bolster the team’s performance.

Regarding his relationship with manager Palladino, Commisso was unequivocal in his support: “I care a lot about Raffaele, we’re fine. I don’t need to take coaches away from other teams.” This statement highlights the trust and confidence he has in Palladino’s abilities to lead Fiorentina forward.

Concluding the interview, Commisso shared his satisfaction with the atmosphere in Florence, despite facing initial challenges with local media. “I’ve found it great. In the first years, journalists had a bit of a problem with me… but I silenced them (laughs). But everyone is okay, both in the municipality and among our fans,” he said, reflecting his growing rapport with the community.

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