Stefano Pioli Reunites with Fiorentina, Aims to Build on European Momentum
In a major move ahead of the 2025–26 Serie A season, Fiorentina have officially appointed Stefano Pioli as their new head coach on a three-year contract. The seasoned Italian manager returns to Florence after a brief stint in Saudi Arabia and is set to begin his second tenure at the helm of the Viola. This decision comes amid a flurry of managerial changes across the Serie A landscape.
A Familiar Face Comes Home
Pioli’s return marks a homecoming for both the coach and the club. The 58-year-old not only spent six years as a Fiorentina player from 1989 to 1995 but also served as the club’s head coach from 2017 to 2019. During his previous managerial stint, he helped stabilize the squad during a challenging period.
After his departure from Fiorentina in 2019, Pioli went on to lead AC Milan, where he achieved notable success — including clinching the Serie A title in the 2021–22 season. Most recently, he managed Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia but parted ways with the club last month.
A Sudden Opening and a Swift Appointment
Fiorentina had extended former head coach Raffaele Palladino’s contract in May, signaling continuity. However, in a surprising twist, Palladino stepped down just three weeks later. That sudden vacancy paved the way for Pioli’s return — a move that brings both experience and emotional resonance to the club.
Club president Rocco Commisso expressed full confidence in the decision, stating:
“From the very first moment I spoke to him, I found a coach with great human values who is ready to do everything he can for this club and this city, which he knows very well and has a close bond with.”
Fiorentina’s European Ambitions
The timing of Pioli’s appointment is strategic. Fiorentina finished sixth in Serie A last season, securing qualification for the UEFA Conference League. With European football on the horizon and ambitions to climb further up the league table, the club will rely heavily on Pioli’s tactical acumen and deep familiarity with the Italian game.
His return also aligns with broader changes across Serie A, as several top clubs — including Inter Milan, AC Milan, AS Roma, Atalanta, and Lazio — have also brought in new managers ahead of the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
Pioli’s mission will be clear: stabilize the squad, compete effectively in Europe, and push Fiorentina closer to the top four. With his strong ties to the club and a proven track record in Italy’s top flight, Fiorentina fans will be hopeful that his second spell delivers on both passion and performance.
