Stefano Pioli Returns as Fiorentina Head Coach after Al Nassr Exit

Fiorentina have hired Stefano Pioli as their new head coach. He’s back in Florence after a year with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.

According to reports, Pioli is currently finalizing his exit from Al-Nassr.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Pioli, who is 59, is taking over after Raffaele Palladino’s sudden exit last month. Many were surprised that Palladino left since he had just signed a new contract. Pioli managed Fiorentina from 2017 to 2019 and played for the club from 1989 to 1995. He’s signed a contract until June 2028.

A previous report confirmed that Pioli will replace Raffaele Palladino as Fiorentina head coach.

Pioli’s been coaching Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s team, who finished third in the Saudi League last season. He’s expected to bring much-needed stability after Fiorentina’s tricky summer.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Fiorentina finished sixth in Serie A last season, which got them into the UEFA Conference League. They were strong in the league, doing better than many rivals. According to reports, Fiorentina finished sixth in Serie A last season, giving them access to European competitions. Pioli has a lot of experience, including winning Serie A with AC Milan in 2022. Fans are hopeful he’ll do well given his ties to the club and city.

This summer, many Serie A teams changed coaches. In fact, six of the top 10 teams from last season have new managers.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR FIORENTINA?

Fiorentina are prepping for the 2025-26 season with both European and league goals. They start serious play with a Conference League qualifier in late July and begin Serie A in August. According to recent reports, Fiorentina’s first match of the new Serie A season will be against Cagliari.

Fans expect Pioli to at least match last year’s success and keep the team strong in Europe.