Commisso insists Fiorentina are ‘not for sale’

Rocco Commisso moved to end speculation over a potential change of ownership at Fiorentina, using a wide-ranging interview with La Nazione to underline that the club “is not for sale” and to urge calm during what he admits is a “difficult moment” for the Viola.

The president said recent rumours of a takeover had only added “destabilisation” around the team, stressing that hardship is something every organisation must manage. “All companies go through difficult periods,” he said, with quotes via Sky Sport Italia.

“But the foresight of those who lead them lies in learning from dark moments so we can come out stronger. I have never given up in any of my businesses, and I certainly won’t start now.”

Commisso, currently unable to travel to Italy due to health reasons, said being away from Florence is “painful”, but he maintains full confidence in the club’s structure. He highlighted the daily involvement of his wife Catherine and his son Giuseppe, as well as the work of general director Alessandro Ferrari and newly-promoted sporting director Roberto Goretti.

The president also issued a firm message about the team’s predicament. “We’re in a difficult situation and we have to get out of it in any way,” he noted. “We cannot allow Fiorentina to go down. Everyone must feel responsible, the club, the players, everyone who works around the team.” He reiterated full backing for coach Paolo Vanoli, saying the coach “has my total trust” and is “working day and night” to lift the side.

Commisso also reflected on the departures of Stefano Pioli and Daniele Pradè, admitting the second Pioli spell “didn’t work” despite major investment, while praising Pradè as a “loyal and trusted” figure.

He closed with a message to supporters after the defeat to Sassuolo. “We must apologise. Four thousand of them came, and we didn’t respond as we should have. We need everyone: above all our fans. I miss you. Stay close to the team.”