Flachi backs Sarri for Fiorentina as Kean's future remains uncertain
Former Fiorentina striker Francesco Flachi has weighed in on the club's future, advocating for the appointment of Maurizio Sarri as manager and casting doubt on the long-term prospects of striker Moise Kean. Speaking on Radio Bruno's "Pentasport" program, Flachi provided a candid assessment of a disappointing season for the Viola and the significant decisions required this summer.
Flachi described the campaign as one of "suffering" and stated the club must now focus on planning for next season. He emphasized the need for a strong managerial appointment to revitalize a squad he believes lacks identity and motivation. The former striker explicitly endorsed Maurizio Sarri, currently at Lazio, as the ideal candidate. "Sarri is the right man for Florence," Flachi said, according to the interview published by Viola News. He praised Sarri's track record, his attacking philosophy, and his ability to manage both veterans and young players, suggesting his arrival would send a strong signal of ambition.
While acknowledging the good work done by current manager Fabio Grosso, Flachi argued the club needs a proven figure like Sarri to build a precise identity and play entertaining football, especially with no European commitments next season. He expressed confidence in sporting director Cristiano Paratici's ability to find value in the transfer market but warned that "drastic choices" are needed for the squad to avoid a repeat of this year's problems.
The discussion turned to the attacking department, where Flachi addressed the situations of youth prospect Lorenzo Piccoli and the high-profile Moise Kean. He suggested Piccoli, a costly signing who has struggled for form and minutes, deserves another season to prove his worth rather than being sold. The focus, however, was squarely on Kean, whose future appears uncertain.
Flachi indicated the decision largely rests with the player himself, noting the financial difficulty for most Italian clubs to meet his release clause, which could push any serious offers to come from abroad. "My thought is clear," Flachi stated. "If he has the desire to stay and fight, I'd keep him for life; otherwise, it's better to separate immediately." He praised Kean's qualities but said the striker needs to make a final mental leap to become a consistent leader.
Crucially, Flachi highlighted the immense challenge of replacing Kean if he departs. "For Fiorentina it will not be easy to find another great striker," he said. "In Italy, the strongest profile is that of [Gianluca] Scamacca, otherwise you are forced to go fishing abroad again, with all the unknowns that entails." This comment underscores the strategic dilemma facing Paratici: securing Kean's commitment or navigating a complex and risky search for a successor of similar caliber.
