Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella spoke to the press ahead of Saturday’s match at Genoa: On Cuadrado’s departure: “It was something that had to be done, but from my point of view it’s a shame. The club has made the right choice.” On the Genoa match: “We’ll put in our usual performance, with strong conviction and a winning mentality.” On whether Fiorentina have been weakened by the Cuadrado deal: “We’ve lost a top player but I see similar characteristics in Salah.” On the club’s new arrivals: “Diamanti is in better shape physically than Gilardino, but Alberto will be back to full fitness soon.” On whether the sale of Cuadrado heralds a step backwards for the club: “I don’t think it’s a step backwards.” On who’ll play in midfield tomorrow: “Aquilani isn’t ready, but Badelj is.” On whether it’s tough to keep hold of a player like Cuadrado: “He’s a professional and wants to play as much as possible. I’m happy for him because he’s going to a top club.” On the issue of the best players leaving Italy: “That’s football – other leagues have greater resources than us. We need to work hard to increase the appeal of Serie A.” On Babacar’s development: “He’s growing fast as a player… he can play alongside Gomez.” On how the team can achieve its objectives: “With hard work and total concentration.” On tomorrow’s opponents, Genoa: “They’re a very physical team and will keep running until the very last kick.” On the squad list for the Europa League: “Two players have come off the list so they’ll be replaced with two others. There are two players that deserve to go on that list.” On whether the team needs reinforcements: “Another midfielder would help us to give Joaquin a breather from time to time.” On the playing surface in Genoa: “Poor-quality pitches are a theme in Italian football. We need to be more worried about Genoa as a team.” On Genoa’s criticism of the referees: “Sometimes speaking up serves its purpose. I’ve got total confidence in the referee tomorrow.”
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