ACF Fiorentina Midfielders 2024/25
ACF Fiorentina, one of Italy’s most storied football clubs, has always been renowned for its ability to nurture and attract talented midfielders. The 2024/25 season is no exception, as the Viola boast a blend of experienced veterans, rising stars, and dynamic playmakers in their midfield ranks. This season’s midfield unit is a testament to the club’s commitment to blending technical prowess, tactical intelligence, and physicality. Below, we take an in-depth look at each of Fiorentina’s midfielders, exploring their backgrounds, playing styles, and contributions to the team.
1. Sofyan Amrabat
Nationality: Moroccan
Former Clubs: FC Utrecht, Feyenoord, Hellas Verona, Club Brugge (loan)
Transfer Fee: €20 million (2020)
Sofyan Amrabat has established himself as the heartbeat of Fiorentina’s midfield since his arrival in 2020. The Moroccan international, known for his relentless energy and tactical discipline, is a master of breaking up opposition play and initiating attacks. Amrabat’s ability to read the game and intercept passes has made him indispensable in both defensive and transitional phases. His time at Feyenoord and FC Utrecht honed his technical skills, while his loan spell at Club Brugge added a layer of European experience to his game. Amrabat’s leadership on and off the pitch has also seen him become a key figure in the dressing room, embodying the fighting spirit of Fiorentina.
2. Giacomo Bonaventura
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Atalanta, AC Milan.
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2020)
Giacomo Bonaventura, affectionately known as “Jack,” brings a wealth of experience and creativity to Fiorentina’s midfield. The Italian maestro, who joined on a free transfer from AC Milan, has been a consistent performer for the Viola. Bonaventura’s vision, dribbling ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals make him a versatile asset. His time at Atalanta and AC Milan saw him develop into one of Serie A’s most reliable midfielders, capable of playing in multiple roles. Now in the twilight of his career, Bonaventura’s intelligence and composure on the ball remain vital to Fiorentina’s attacking play, while his mentorship has been invaluable for younger players.
3. Alfred Duncan
Nationality: Ghanaian
Former Clubs: Inter Milan, Sassuolo, Sampdoria (loan).
Transfer Fee: €15 million (2020)
Alfred Duncan is the embodiment of a box-to-box midfielder, combining physicality with technical finesse. The Ghanaian international, who joined Fiorentina from Sassuolo, has been a consistent presence in the Viola’s midfield. Duncan’s ability to drive forward with the ball, coupled with his defensive contributions, makes him a well-rounded player. His time at Inter Milan and Sassuolo helped him develop a strong understanding of Serie A’s demands, and he has carried that experience into his performances for Fiorentina. Duncan’s work rate and ability to contribute in both halves of the pitch have made him a fan favorite.
4. Rolando Mandragora
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Genoa, Juventus, Udinese, Torino (loan).
Transfer Fee: €12 million (2022)
Rolando Mandragora is a technically gifted midfielder who has grown into a key role at Fiorentina since his move from Juventus. Known for his precise passing and ability to dictate the tempo of the game, Mandragora has become a linchpin in the Viola’s midfield. His time at Udinese and Genoa provided him with the platform to showcase his talents, earning him a move to Juventus. Although his stint with the Bianconeri was limited, Mandragora has flourished in Florence, where he has been given the freedom to express himself. His composure under pressure and ability to recycle possession are crucial to Fiorentina’s build-up play.
5. Youssef Maleh
Nationality: Moroccan
Former Clubs: Venezia, Hellas Verona (loan).
Transfer Fee: €8 million (2021)
Youssef Maleh is a dynamic and versatile midfielder who has steadily grown into an important player for Fiorentina. The Moroccan international, who joined from Venezia, is known for his agility, dribbling skills, and ability to operate in tight spaces. Maleh’s loan spell at Hellas Verona allowed him to gain valuable Serie A experience, which he has brought back to Florence. His ability to play both centrally and on the flanks provides Fiorentina with tactical flexibility. Maleh’s quick feet and creativity make him a constant threat in the final third, while his work ethic ensures he contributes defensively as well.
6. Antonín Barák
Nationality: Czech
Former Clubs: Slavia Prague, Udinese, Hellas Verona.
Transfer Fee: €8.5 million (2023)
Antonín Barák is a technically proficient midfielder who joined Fiorentina from Hellas Verona in 2023. The Czech international is known for his ability to score goals from midfield, thanks to his powerful shooting and intelligent movement. Barák’s time at Udinese and Hellas Verona saw him develop into one of Serie A’s most consistent performers, earning him a move to Florence. His physical presence and aerial ability make him a threat in set-piece situations, while his passing range allows him to dictate play. Barák’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess have made him a valuable addition to Fiorentina’s midfield.
7. Lucas Torreira
Nationality: Uruguayan
Former Clubs: Sampdoria, Arsenal, Atlético Madrid (loan).
Transfer Fee: €15 million (2022).
Lucas Torreira is a tenacious and combative midfielder who has brought grit and determination to Fiorentina’s midfield. The Uruguayan international, who joined from Arsenal, is known for his ability to win back possession and break up opposition attacks. Torreira’s time at Sampdoria and Arsenal helped him develop a reputation as one of Europe’s most effective defensive midfielders. His loan spell at Atlético Madrid further enhanced his tactical understanding, making him a well-rounded player. Torreira’s energy and commitment have made him a fan favorite, while his ability to shield the defense has been crucial to Fiorentina’s success.
8. Gaetano Castrovilli
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Bari, Cremonese (loan).
Transfer Fee: €7 million (2019)
Gaetano Castrovilli is one of Fiorentina’s most exciting talents, known for his flair, creativity, and technical ability. The Italian midfielder, who joined from Bari, has developed into a key player for the Viola. Castrovilli’s loan spell at Cremonese allowed him to gain valuable experience, which he has used to establish himself in Florence. His dribbling skills, vision, and ability to score spectacular goals make him a constant threat in the final third. Castrovilli’s versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, providing Fiorentina with tactical flexibility. His potential has drawn interest from top clubs, but he remains a vital part of Fiorentina’s project.
9. Erick Pulgar
Nationality: Chilean
Former Clubs: Universidad Católica, Bologna.
Transfer Fee: €10 million (2019)
Erick Pulgar is a composed and intelligent midfielder who has been a consistent performer for Fiorentina since his arrival from Bologna. The Chilean international is known for his precise passing, set-piece expertise, and ability to control the tempo of the game. Pulgar’s time at Universidad Católica and Bologna helped him develop into one of South America’s most promising midfielders, earning him a move to Florence. His ability to dictate play from deep positions and contribute defensively has made him a key figure in Fiorentina’s midfield. Pulgar’s leadership and experience have also been invaluable to the team.
10. Nicolás González
Nationality: Argentine
Former Clubs: Argentinos Juniors, VfB Stuttgart.
Transfer Fee: €23 million (2021)
Although primarily a winger, Nicolás González’s versatility allows him to operate in midfield when needed. The Argentine international, who joined from VfB Stuttgart, is known for his pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. González’s time at Argentinos Juniors and Stuttgart helped him develop into one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. His ability to cut inside and create chances makes him a constant threat, while his work rate ensures he contributes defensively. González’s versatility and attacking prowess have made him a key player for Fiorentina, capable of changing games with moments of brilliance.
Conclusion
ACF Fiorentina’s midfield for the 2024/25 season is a blend of experience, youth, and versatility. Each player brings unique qualities to the team, contributing to a well-rounded and dynamic unit. From the tenacity of Lucas Torreira to the creativity of Gaetano Castrovilli, Fiorentina’s midfield is equipped to compete at the highest level. As the Viola continue their pursuit of success in Serie A and beyond, their midfield will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in achieving their ambitions. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, Fiorentina’s midfield is poised to shine in the seasons to come.