UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 02: Fiorentina’s head coach Paolo Vanoli observes from the sidelines during the Serie A encounter between Udinese Calcio and ACF Fiorentina at Stadio Friuli on March 02, 2026, in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Paolo Vanoli criticized Fiorentina following their 3-0 loss to Udinese, stating it ‘felt like a continuation’ of their Conference League playoff against Jagiellonia.
Coach’s Critique After Defeat
Fiorentina had been performing exceptionally well, but they faced two defeats within a few days. Nevertheless, on Thursday, they managed to advance to the Conference League Round of 16 against Jagiellonia in extra time, despite nearly squandering a 3-0 lead from the first leg.
The match had already indicated potential issues, which were validated in Udine with a 3-0 loss.
Vanoli observes the resurgence of familiar issues for Fiorentina
Recent Performance Struggles
“Udinese plays a very physical style, so if we consistently arrive late to the challenges, we are making it easier for them,” Vanoli stated to DAZN Italia.
“It seemed like a continuation of the match in the Conference League; the mindset was once again off. The players must seriously reflect on their performances, as it takes considerable time to create something valuable, yet only a fleeting moment to ruin it.”
Daniele Rugani was immediately included in the starting lineup for his debut with Fiorentina, but it turned out to be a nightmare; he lost his footing during Christian Kabasele’s free header, conceded a penalty to Keinan Davis, and was easily outmuscled by Adam Buksa for the third goal.
Advancing in Conference League
“I anticipated that Rugani would find it challenging to complete 90 minutes after such a lengthy absence, yet he managed to finish the match. He won’t regain his form or fitness without playing. I firmly believe he will make a significant impact in the upcoming weeks,” remarked Vanoli.
Instead, the coach directed his frustration at other Fiorentina players and the general mindset of the team.
“We never ventured into the open spaces; we circulated the ball too slowly, and that is simply unacceptable.
Match Highlights and Analysis
“The data indicated that we failed to register a single shot on target, and we struggled with our defense during set pieces, demonstrating a lack of focus.”
“Without determination, we won’t make any progress, and in that regard, we have fallen short, as we need to enhance our commitment to preventing goals.”
There was also a further injury worry, as Vanoli stated that Moise Kean requested to be taken off following a blow to his tibia.
This marks Fiorentina’s first Serie A defeat since their 2-1 setback against Napoli on January 31, leaving them tied on 24 points with both Cremonese and Lecce.
Currently, the only teams trailing them in the standings are Pisa and Verona, both tied at the bottom with 15 points, indicating that there is still one more relegation position yet to be determined.
“The competition is intensifying, and upcoming matches will hinge on the mindset of the players.”