Paolo Vanoli recognizes that Fiorentina has shifted its focus from pure quality to cultivating a ‘battling spirit’ in order to secure a dominant 3-0 win against Jagiellonia in the Conference League play-off and to reset their performance in Serie A.
Traveling to Poland in freezing temperatures, the Viola made several rotations in their lineup, fully aware of the importance of climbing the Serie A standings to avoid relegation.
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Despite these changes, the team showcased a powerful performance, defeating Jagiellonia, who are currently leading the Polish League.
Luca Ranieri opened the scoring with a header, followed by an impressive free-kick from Rolando Mandragora and a penalty converted by Roberto Piccoli.
Vanoli Observes a New Energy at Fiorentina
NAPLES, ITALY – JANUARY 31: Paolo Vanoli, head coach of ACF Fiorentina, alongside player Pietro Comuzzo during the Serie A match against SSC Napoli at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on January 31, 2026. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
“Since my arrival, I’ve emphasized the importance of this competition. I must continuously assess our situation in Serie A; we had hoped to channel more energy into Europe at this point,” Vanoli stated to Sky Sport Italia.
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“Tonight’s performance showed that this group of players is eager to demonstrate their commitment to something significant. It wasn’t an easy match; we endured and fought for our colors, just like we did against Como. This attitude is essential for our progression in both Serie A and the Conference League.”
Missing from the squad were David De Gea, Moise Kean, Dodo, Albert Gudmundsson, Manor Solomon, Marco Brescianini, Daniele Rugani, and Oliver Christensen.
However, it seems the team has found a renewed sense of purpose, especially following their recent Serie A triumph over Como.
COMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 14: Moise Kean of ACF Fiorentina celebrates with his teammates after netting their second goal from the penalty spot during the Serie A match against Como 1907 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on February 14, 2026. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
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“Before we can focus on playing attractive football, we must establish a strong team spirit. While we may have regressed in terms of quality recently, our attitude has significantly improved,” Vanoli explained.
“We need to maintain this approach. Turning things around at this club after a challenging start was no easy task, but now I trust this group, and we will need everyone as we battle until the end.”
The second leg of the play-off will take place on Thursday, February 26, at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, where the outcome will determine advancement into the Conference League Round of 16.
“Much of the criticism aimed at us has been justified. It’s a shock when you’re an ambitious club sitting at the bottom of the table with just five points. Simple possession of the ball isn’t sufficient when you’re struggling; you must fight for every point.”
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“When we examine our best performances, they were often against the top teams, while we squandered crucial points against teams in similar positions, where we most needed victories.”
“Next up is Pisa, which is not only a local rivalry but also a critical match as we fight against relegation. We must adopt the mentality of an underdog, like we did tonight, being ready to endure and avoid any sense of entitlement.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Giovanni Fabbian of ACF Fiorentina competes during the Serie A match against Cagliari Calcio at Artemio Franchi on January 24, 2026. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
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Fiorentina made several changes during the January transfer window, including the signing of Giovanni Fabbian from Bologna.
“Fabbian possesses quality, speed, and a good eye for goal, but we’re working to reintegrate him into the mezz’ala position. He’s primarily played as a trequartista in recent years,” Vanoli noted.
“I want him in the midfield for better balance, and today we played him a bit deeper in a 4-4-2 setup. I believe he has significant potential here, but it will take time to adapt after a mid-season transfer.”
Several players who faced criticism from fans recently, including Ranieri and Mandragora, also scored tonight.
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“I am genuinely pleased for Luca, as I believe he was subjected to excessive criticism, even if he acknowledged his own mistakes. He endured a tough period, but that experience helped him mature, and he is currently demonstrating that with his response.”
“These players are crucial for Fiorentina, and I am very glad for their contributions,” concluded Vanoli.