Former Italy Manager Cesare Prandelli Returns to Fiorentina

Cesare Prandelli Returns to Fiorentina After Ten Years

Prandelli’s Previous Exploits at Fiorentina

Prandelli left Fiorentina in 2010, after five years in charge, to replace Marcello Lippi as Italy manager at the end of the 2010 World Cup. During his time at the club, he became their longest-serving manager, surpassing Fulvio Bernardini.

He had taken Fiorentina from a 16th place finish (before he took over) to tenth in his first season. Things gradually got better and better as they finished in the top four twice. His last season was perhaps his worst in charge, domestically anyway. Managing just an 11th place finish, down seven places from the year previous.

Having said that, it was a different story in Europe. Prandelli guided them to the round of 16 of the Champions League, progressing as group leaders. Their group included Lyon, Liverpool and Debrecen. Prandelli managed a double over Liverpool, who finished third and dropped into the Europa League.

They were beaten by eventual winners Bayern Munich in the round of 16, and only on away goals. An impressive European campaign not matched domestically.

Since Prandelli’s departure for the Italian national team, Fiorentina have gone through eight managerial appointments, him being the ninth.

Current Situation

Fiorentina haven’t seen Champions League football since he left the club and no doubt that will be the long-term ambitions of La Viola. However, they haven’t seen European football whatsoever since their 2016/17 Europa League campaign. With star man Federico Chiesa having deserted them for Serie A champions Juventus, the task to improve becomes far greater.

Since his time with Italy came to an end, Prandelli has coached the likes of Galatasaray, Valencia, Al-Nasr and most recently Genoa.