Pioli: We are currently unable to send more forwards, and Dzeko’s level in the team may change

In the UEFA Europa League match early this morning, Fiorentina defeated Rapid Vienna 3-0 away from home. Fiorentina coach Pioli was interviewed after the game.

Will winning this game allow people to see Florence's progress?

I think in these moments we should focus on the situation and focus on being a determined team. And I got a great response tonight. Maybe in the next games we will make further improvements in other aspects.

Is there currently a hierarchy in Florence’s lineup?

It depends on the player. There are always people in front and some further back, but everything can change. We faced some good opponents in the UEFA Europa League, but their overall quality was lower than our Serie A counterparts.

Dzeko scored a goal in this game. He said he hopes to get more playing time. Are you considering sending more forwards in the game at the same time?

We are working hard to find the balance of the team. At the moment I don't think we can play more than two forwards at the same time because of our form and overall balance. I hope there will be opportunities to field more forwards in the future, but now is not the time.

What is your evaluation of Dzeko? Can he improve his level of competition?

Dzeko is a very strong player and (if we need to discuss) he knows where my office is. He also understood that I had to make some choices and that he had to be ready at all times. Player hierarchy is subject to change, depending primarily on performance and results.

You are coaching Fiorentina this summer, but the team has yet to win in the first 7 rounds of Serie A this season. What do you think of Fiorentina's performance at the beginning of this season?

I came to Florence with great ambitions, hoping to improve the team's level and meet everyone's expectations. The current start of the season has indeed disrupted some plans. When faced with difficulties, we must put aside the complexities of the situation and try to avoid thinking too much about those. The most important job of a coach is psychological, I have always believed in this.