Joe Barone was interviewed following the UEFA Conference League draw in which the Viola were paired with either FC Twente or FK Cukaricki in the playoff match for the tournament proper. The home leg will take place on 18 August with the return leg a week later on the 25th. Here is some of what he had to say:

“This means a lot to everyone: to me, the club as a whole, the city, Rocco Commisso, and the fans. We need to overcome this two-legged playoff hurdle to reach the Conference League group stages. We’ve got a big season ahead of us, having made some significant investments, including planning for the future at Viola Park. Overall we’re really glad to be back in Europe; it’s a big deal for our fans and the city of Florence.

“As for our squad being stronger than in 2021/22, we’ll see what happens on the pitch. On paper we’ve got a top group of players. We’ve got a lot of belief in what we do and the identity which is being forged by Vincenzo Italiano. We’re convinced that we can have a great season and that we’ll give a good account of ourselves both in domestic competitions and in Europe. There are many games ahead of us but we’ve got the backing of our fans who spur us on both home and away. Rocco’s support is crucial; his investment counts for a lot.

“Investors like Rocco are very much welcome in the league here. Being in Europe gives the club a chance to grow. I think that we’ve established some good groundwork and we’ve got people at the club who believe in the city and in the team.”