The rivalry with the Bianconeri is one of the fiercest for Fiorentina supporters, a feeling that has been made clear by the pre-match choreography that is displayed in the stands. It was essentially an insult aimed at the opposition, nothing unusual for those who were used to the charged atmosphere of stadiums, but still a clear sign of the atmosphere around this game.
The season of Raffaele Palladino has been a roller coaster, characterized by highlights and lows, but the classification shows that his viola side still has a point than Milan, despite the fact that the latter has and remains a stronger team on paper in the mix with apparently superior graters, such as Roma and Lazio. However, Palladino is often examined in Florence, and the criticism that is aimed at him does not seem to come from tactical, technical or line -up decisions.
Instead, his biggest challenge seems to be his relationship with the dressing room. Fiorentina often gives the impression of being a tense environment, and Palladino, known for its sharp personality and clear ideas, is not anyone to avoid confrontation. If his players do not meet his requirements, he has no trouble making it known.
This dynamic was even a subject of discussion in a press conference in January, where the coach looked worries. In the meantime, former Captain Cristiano Biraghi has left and further surprises can be on the horizon.
Having a strong personality and clear tactical vision can be characteristics of a talented coach, but only if the team buys in its philosophy. So far that has not been the case, or at least it doesn't seem to be.
However, Palladino has unmistakably revived Moise Kean, who looks more dominant than he has in years, and he also starts to get the best in Albert Gudmundsson, one of Fiorentina's selection frameworks. Unfortunately, the Icelandic attacker has struggled with recurring physical problems, so he has no consistent impact.
When assessing the Fiorentina season, all factors must be considered: the tensions of the dressing room, the excessive number of injuries (which may not be completely coincidental), and the delicate situation around Edouardo Bove, a tragedy for the young Roman midfielder and a challenging issue for the entire team. Despite these complications, Fiorentina remains in a strong competition position, is advanced in the Conference League and has real prospects in European competition. Now, to close it all, they have achieved a sensational 3-0 win over their arch rivals.
It was a match dominated by the viola, despite the non -controlling possession, a tactical choice that intentionally saw the ball to leave Motta's Juventus. In the 15th minute, Robin Gosens broke the impasse, roared back on the big stage and evoked memories of his best days in an Atalanta shirt.
Only three minutes later, Rolando Mandragora doubled the lead and sent the stadium in a frenzy. Juventus had no response and in the 53rd minute Gudmundsson sealed the 3-0 score with a characteristic strike, a toxic, elusive shot that left the bianconeri twist. The Fiorentina -believers broke out in the celebration, while Palladino was currently enjoying themselves, fully aware that the real challenge now retains this momentum.
Juventus, on the other hand, already seems to have lost the feeling of stability. After a 0-4 thrashing from Atalanta, they have now suffered a humiliating defeat and have given seven goals in just two games. The rankings are becoming increasingly precarious, which contributes to the growing concern within the club.
In the immediate aftermath of the competition, Juventus Management expressed support for Motta, which confirmed their confidence in him. At this point it would be illogical to break the tires before the end of the season, but urgent solutions are needed.
The disciplined, structured Juventus of the early months of the season feels like a distant memory. It is now up to Thiago Motta to rediscover that firmness before it is too late. This is his moment of truth: now or never.
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