Fiorentina fielding 13 academy products ahead of the Jagiellonia tie signals cohesion and defensive discipline; punters might favour backing Fiorentina to progress or to win the return leg (consider Fiorentina -0.5 Asian handicap), with expectations of a structured, lower-scoring affair despite the club’s Serie A struggles.
Paratici hails academy as “strong signal” ahead of Jagiellonia tie
Fiorentina travel to Bialystok to face Jagiellonia in the Conference League, with the first leg kicking off at 20:00 GMT and the second leg scheduled for February 26 at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. The club’s historic pedigree in the competition — two finals and a semi-final in past seasons — contrasts with a domestic campaign now mired in a relegation battle.
Academy emphasis and tactical identity
Director Fabio Paratici has made the club’s youth strategy central to the European project, naming 13 homegrown players in the squad and stressing a desire to build something lasting. “We are going through a delicate period, but we must divide Europe from Serie A, giving our all in every game,” he said.
“This evening we want to send a strong signal of motivation to the youth academy. We are also playing with nine Italians, and four of the five defenders were formed in our club. We want to set the example, hoping to create something lasting for the future of Fiorentina.”
Squad availability and injury concerns
Fiorentina are carrying several absences: David De Gea and Albert Guðmundsson are injured, Manor Solomon is sidelined with flu symptoms, and Moise Kean and Dodô did not make the trip due to knocks. Marco Brescianini, Oliver Christensen and Daniele Rugani are not registered for European competition. Around 350 Fiorentina supporters have made the trip to Bialystok amid freezing conditions.
Paratici defends decision to join Fiorentina
Paratici described his move from his previous role as a calculated, courageous step, signing a long-term contract with the club and committing to a multi-year project.
He outlined tactical adjustments the club has pursued, including a shift from a three-man defence to four and recruitment aimed at midfielders who can carry the ball and add quality.
Paratici admitted his involvement in the January window was partial due to overlapping commitments but insisted the squad was built to suit the coach’s vision.
Betting implications and match outlook
The heavy reliance on academy defenders suggests improved cohesion and defensive organisation, which supports backing Fiorentina to progress in the tie or to win the return leg.
Expect a structured, lower-scoring match; punters might consider options like Fiorentina to win with an Asian handicap (-0.5) or markets favouring under 3.5 goals.
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Exercise caution given injuries and the club’s inconsistent Serie A form.
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