ACF Fiorentina can announce that Cesare Prandelli has replaced Giuseppe Iachini as head coach of the first team.

Last season Beppe Iachini had to deal with a particularly difficult situation and, in what were very complicated times for everyone, succeeded in improving the team's fortunes and ending the campaign in tenth place.

Sadly, following a careful analysis of the first part of this season and the results obtained thus far, the club has decided that the best solution is to relieve the coach of his duties.

President Commisso and the Viola management would like to thank Beppe Iachini and his staff for the commitment and professionalism they have shown throughout and wish them all the best for their next stage of their careers.

Cesare Prandelli, born in Orzinuovi on 19 August 1957, spent five successful seasons in charge of the Viola from 2005 to 2010, qualifying for the Champions League twice and reaching the semi-final of the UEFA Cup.

He then became head coach of the Italian national team and guided them to the final of the 2012 European Championships.

The new Viola coach will take his first training session at the Davide Astori sports centre on the afternoon of Tuesday 10 November 2020.

“First of all, I want to personally thank Beppe Iachini,” Rocco Commisso said. “He is a competent, determined coach who steered the team out of trouble during our most difficult period last season through hard work, dedication and character.

“Unfortunately, recent results meant we had to make a change at the helm, but that doesn't alter my opinion of or gratitude towards Beppe, both on a personal level and professionally speaking.

“I would also like to welcome Prandelli to the club. We believe that his ability, career and personal qualities – for which he is widely recognised and much appreciated throughout the football world – make him the perfect choice for the Viola dugout.

“I agreed with the management team's decision to opt for Cesare as our new coach based on his past experience and huge motivation to work for this club again.

“We hope to see the same motivation and determination in all the players and everyone who works in close contact with the team.

“I hope the new coach will be able to get the best out of our squad and produce good football and good results, bringing joy to Florence and the great Viola Family.”

Cesare Prandelli will be unveiled to the media tomorrow, Tuesday 10 November 2020, at 13.00 CET live on Fiorentina's media channels.