Former Fiorentina player Bertoni backs Pioli to win trophies at Viola

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Sam Wilson | Last updated Aug 8, 2025 3:56 AM ET

Former Fiorentina and Argentina player Daniel Bertoni has tipped the Viola to “aim to win a trophy” and “hope for a Champions League spot”, with the club able to compete with the top teams “thanks to Stefano Pioli.”

Bertoni, speaking to the Gazzetta dello Sport, had kind words to say about the new Fiorentina head coach, describing him as “good, both on the pitch and as a person.”

The Argentine was also complimentary about the Viola’s transfer window so far: “I think the right moves have been made and Kean staying is an added bonus.”

‘Milan can compete for Scudetto under Allegri’

Bertoni was also asked who he thinks is the favourite to win the Scudetto, to which the 70-year-old responded, “I like Milan with Allegri on the bench. He is working hard and I think they can compete with Inter, another favourite despite the change of coach from Inzaghi to Chivu, and of course with ‘my’ Napoli. I think it is a three-horse race between them for the Scudetto. Right now I don’t see any other contenders.”

Following on from this, the former Argentine international added that “[Juventus] have been out of the top spot for several years and I think they can try to get back to the top but I still see them behind Milan, Inter and Napoli.”

Going back to Fiorentina, Bertoni was asked if he is still tied to the club, to which he replied, “Very much. Because of my love for the city. I hope for the Scudetto but a place in the Champions League would be fantastic.”

New Fiorentina striker Dzeko ‘an extraordinary goalscorer’

Veteran Bosnian forward Edin Dzeko has returned to Serie A this summer, joining Fiorentina on a free transfer after his contract with Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce expired. The former Roma and Inter striker will turn 40 in March but the Viola hope he still has something to offer the club.

When asked about Dzeko’s return to Italy, Bertoni said “He is intelligent and has a strong mentality. He also knows where to put the ball for his teammates and he’s also an extraordinary goalscorer. His career speaks for itself.”

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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