According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, former Fiorentina captain Gonzalo Rodríguez stated that Fiorentina needs time to gel and fans should be patient with Mastantuono.

Gonzalo Rodríguez, let's start here. How does it feel to be back at Fiorentina?

"It's a wonderful, incredible feeling. I haven't felt this way in a long time. I hold Fiorentina and its fans close to my heart. If I may say so, I feel like one of them. Another thing that impressed me is that not only adults who remember me as a player came to say hello, but also younger children.

The passion is passed down through generations, not just for the team, but also for us players. Everyone is willing to remind you of a moment we shared in the past five years. In short, many memories suddenly came flooding back."

What is your fondest memory?

"Without a doubt, it's the 4-2 comeback win against Juventus, with Pepito Rossi scoring a hat-trick. That was a historic day. Even now, people stop me on the street to remind me of that match. They call me 'captain'. It's been 13 years... but it feels like it happened just yesterday."

What do you think of this Fiorentina team now?

"I think it's a team still under construction, somewhat like an open construction site. Many players have arrived, and they need to find the right chemistry to work together effectively. This takes time. I'm optimistic and confident in the club and the choices they've made. Now, it just requires patience."

In particular, they signed an Argentine player you're very familiar with – Franco Mastantuono. What kind of player is he?

"He's only 18, but he's very strong and mature. He seems much older than his actual age. He should be allowed to play freely and show his talent, and he has a lot of talent, which everyone will soon see."

If you could give him some advice? You're already very familiar with the city...

"I would tell him to relax and play his game. He has very important technical skills that can decide matches. Italian football is tough and more physical than Spanish football. He will be very important for Fiorentina. However, if I may, I'd also like to say something to the fans."

"I want to say, give him time, wait for him. Not just for the whole team, but for him personally. Don't rush, wait for Mastantuono, he will surprise you. There's also another player who has impressed me greatly."

"Pellegrino. He's very young, but he has strength and talent. His headers are very powerful. I think he's an old-school centre-forward with unique characteristics. This type of centre-forward is rare in Europe now..."

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com