Colpani: What Will He Bring in Purple?

After a standout season in Serie A that has garnered wide-scale attention, a long haired Italian is making a significant move, travelling to England.

That’s right, Andrea Colpani is a Fiorentina player. Leaving his former club, he promptly flew to meet his new teammates and former manager for their preseason tour in Preston, before returning to Viola Park to continue preseason preparations.

Colpani, who followed Raffaele Palladino from Monza to Fiorentina, did not get the opportunity to bask in the Florentine sun but instead endured the British rain in his first days as a Fiorentina player. He was present for the 1-1 draw with Bolton and both other friendlies, and has since been given a run out in purple back in Italy. We can only hope he rains goals and assists for the rest of his career at Fiorentina!

Fiorentina fans are justifiably excited, and on the day of his presentation at Viola Park to the fans, we take a look at what he will offer.

Colpani brings a fresh dynamic to the squad, reminiscent of Jack Bonaventura but with the promise of a burgeoning career. Under Palladino at Monza, Colpani thrived, playing as a creator behind the central striker in a two-number-10 setup.

Colpani's statistics from last season are impressive: 57 key passes, ranking above 91% of Serie A players, and 7 big chances created, just four fewer than leader Charles De Ketelaere. His offensive contributions extend beyond passing, with 19 shots on target and only two fewer dribbles than Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Despite these efforts, he registered only four assists, which may reflect Monza's finishing quality. His expected assists tally was 6, suggesting better outcomes with more efficient scorers.

Colpani's arrival promises to invigorate Fiorentina's final third, offering a creative spark that was missing last season. The key question among fans is how he will gel with Nico Gonzalez, should the latter stay (which looks less likely by the day). Both are left-footed, but this can be an asset. Nico could shift to the left 10 position, where he excels for Argentina and previously for Stuttgart. In a fluid double-10 system, positions need not adhere strictly to foot preference. Nico's ability to step into the attack would complement Colpani's central and half-space operations. The same is true of Guðmundsson who would also makes runs beyond whilst Colpani creates.

Fiorentina's signing of Colpani marks a significant upgrade, injecting new dimensions into their attack. As preseason unfolds, the focus will shift to how effectively he can integrate and whether Moise Kean can capitalize on the chances Colpani creates. Fans should appreciate this marquee acquisition and look forward to a rejuvenated offensive strategy next season under their exciting new coach.