The familiar scent of freshly cut grass and the distinct sound of footballs hitting boots signal the official end of the summer hiatus. For ACF Fiorentina, the 2024/2025 season has begun its initial phase, with the squad converging upon the impressive Viola Park training complex. The first order of business? The obligatory medical examinations, a ritual that officially transitions players from holiday mode back to professional duty.
Steering the ship for this new campaign is head coach Stefano Pioli, who was reportedly already on site at Viola Park a day ahead of the main squad`s arrival. Pioli`s return holds a degree of significance, having previously managed the club from 2017 to 2019. His initial comments to the club`s official channels, citing “an emotion to return here,” subtly acknowledge this prior connection as he steps back into the technical area at the state-of-the-art facility in Bagno a Ripoli.
For the subsequent two weeks, Viola Park will serve as the dedicated operational hub for the squad`s foundational preseason work. This period is meticulously planned to build physical conditioning, integrate tactical frameworks, and ensure the squad develops cohesion. Pioli has named a substantial list of 36 players for this initial preparatory stage, a diverse group comprising established team members, recent acquisitions, and younger prospects aiming to make a strong impression.
Notably present on the preseason roster is forward Moise Kean. However, his inclusion is currently accompanied by a rather immediate potential exit clause. Kean`s future at the club appears to be subject to a release clause that is reportedly active for a specific, and relatively brief, timeframe – approximately the next 36 hours from the initial reporting of his situation. This adds an element of swift decision-making requirement right at the outset of training.
The perennial summer transfer window drama finds its way into Fiorentina`s early preseason through Kean`s circumstances. Reports indicate that the player has already declined an offer from Saudi Arabia, a clear signal that his preference lies with continuing his career within Europe. The scenario is relatively straightforward, if time-sensitive: should a significant European club formalize an offer within this tight window, Kean would reportedly give it serious consideration.
Conversely, should that particular opportunity from a top European suitor not materialize before the clause expires, the path forward for Kean with Fiorentina appears set. He would subsequently remain with the club and, critically, sign a contract extension. While this potential resolution offers clarity, the uncertainty extending into the first full days of tactical drills and physical preparation is perhaps not the most seamless beginning for either the player or the coaching staff attempting to establish routines.
Despite the lingering transfer subplot regarding Kean, the primary work of preparing the squad for the rigors of the season is now in full swing. With medicals nearing completion, the focus will rapidly shift towards the demanding physical and tactical sessions that constitute preseason training. All eyes are now on Viola Park as Stefano Pioli commences the task of molding the team under his renewed guidance, aiming for a successful campaign ahead.
