Vannoli returns to lead Fiorentina after disastrous start to the season

Paulo Fonseca is set to return to ACF Fiorentina after the club's management decided to reinstate the Italian coach following the team's disastrous start to the Serie A season, according to Sky Sport Italia.

The management of ACF Fiorentina made the decision to dismiss Fabio Grosso, who took over the role last summer, after the team lost to Torino 2-1, marking their third consecutive defeat since the start of the season. These results came after a heavy 4-0 loss to AS Roma, followed by a 3-0 defeat to Frosinone.

Vannoli's return is seen as a call-up for the coach who previously succeeded in saving ACF Fiorentina's last season, having taken over in November 2025 following Stefano Pioli. He led the team to secure their place in Italy's Serie A and also reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League.

ACF Fiorentina had decided in June to change their manager and rely on Grosso, but the difficult start prompted the management to quickly reinstate Italiano, after he proved his ability to handle the team and achieve the goal of survival last season.

Vannoli will return to a different team this time, amid significant changes to ACF Fiorentina's squad during the transfer window, with the club spending important amounts to strengthen its ranks.

His first task will be to restore stability and confidence to the team and to regain positive results as soon as possible.