Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Italiano was delighted with his players for Europa Conference League playoff win against Rapid Vienna.
The hosts overcame a 1-0 first-leg deficit to win the tie 2-1 on aggregate thanks to Nico Gonzalez’s double.
“This was the game we had to play, we had to speed up and send many men into the box. It got a bit complicated, as we had hoped to break the deadlock earlier, but we pushed even harder in the second half and I am pleased, as it was not easy to get through,” Italiano told Sky Italia.
“Rapid Vienna are well-organised, talented and we will face some more tough opponents in the group stage too.
“I think this Fiorentina side learned a great deal from the journey we had last season. They care about Europe, know we can grow and become even stronger. In my view, that gave us added maturity and now we need to take that attitude to Serie A too, as it will be another packed season. We must try to be balanced and do well in both tournaments.
“Nico showed his desire to be a leader by choosing the Number 10 jersey. It’s a big number in all teams, it has to be honoured and he took on this responsibility. He is a complete striker, but is still young and can become a truly top player.
“Arthur Melo is a complete midfielder, but he needs to find full fitness and in my view he is not there yet. We’ll see him really step up a level and even be decisive with goals when he achieves that.”
