How did the penalties with the rest of the team go? Nicolo Fagioli was making some jokes.

“Nicolo scored three out of three penalties; he made some great shots. And I did well with some of the others.”

How is the team doing? How is this second part of pre-season in the UK going?

“The club hasn’t changed much. There is a nice atmosphere. We have fun and like to spend time together. We don’t go straight to our rooms in the evening; instead we play and chat, which I believe is a very important element for the continuation of the season.”

You had two training sessions today, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. You trained for one hour and forty minutes in the afternoon.

“We’re working hard. We’re also spending a lot of time at the gym to lay the foundations for a long season ahead.”

Did you ever think you would come back to Fiorentina after leaving in 2017?

“Good question. I always hoped I could come back. When you spend many years at a club like this, returning becomes your goal. It feels great to have made it.”

You have seen many different Fiorentina teams over the years, some better, some not as good. What is this year’s team like?

“Our team has many great assets. Many good players in all positions. I think we can have a great season this year.”

You played in the Europa League while you were at Fiorentina. Your first match this year will be in Europe. Are you already thinking about it? How far along are you in your training process?

“I can’t answer this question as I was not here for the first part of pre-season. I have seen these two friendlies and the team seems to be clicking quite well. The fitness is getting there too. There is a lot of intensity during the training sessions. So I think we are doing well, but we’ll see what happens on the pitch.”

Your first pre-season at Fiorentina was in 2011 in Cortina. Now you are back: what has changed since then?

“I have changed personally. Over the years I’ve gained experience, I’ve played many seasons and faced challenges: leaving a place where you are looked after and protected and suddenly playing for the senior team is never easy. I’ve played to avoid relegation and to reach the playoffs. So I’ve learned a lot by playing tough matches and today I want to offer my experience to my younger team-mates.”