Fiorentina vs Atalanta: Injury Crisis Could Decide Final Day
La Viola face uphill battle against Europa hopefuls on Friday
The curtain falls on Serie A's 2025-26 campaign this Friday evening at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, where a beleaguered Fiorentina side will host Atalanta in what promises to be a fascinating final day encounter.
Fiorentina's season has been one of struggle, currently sitting 15th with 41 points and a concerning recent form of WDLDD. The Viola have managed just nine wins all campaign, reflected in their negative nine goal difference. In stark contrast, Atalanta arrive in seventh place with 58 points, firmly in the hunt for European qualification despite a patchy LWDLD run that has seen them drop crucial points in recent weeks.
The standout performer for the hosts has been Nicolò Fagioli, whose exceptional SAM rating of 9.2 makes him one of Serie A's top-rated central midfielders this season. Alongside him, Rolando Mandragora (SAM 9.1) has been equally impressive, contributing six goals from midfield while averaging 6.4 points per game. Albert Guðmundsson provides the creative spark with five goals and four assists from his attacking midfield role.
Atalanta's strength lies in their midfield trio of Mario Pašalić (SAM 9.0), Éderson (SAM 8.9), and Marten de Roon (SAM 8.6), providing the perfect blend of creativity and defensive solidity. Goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi has been rock-solid between the posts with an 8.9 SAM rating, while striker Nikola Krstović has delivered eight goals and four assists.
However, injuries could prove decisive. Fiorentina are decimated, missing key players including striker Moise Kean (calf injury), left-back Robin Gosens (thigh injury), and center-backs Luca Ranieri (suspended) and Marin Pongračić (yellow card accumulation). Atalanta have their own defensive worries with Berat Djimsiti sidelined and Isak Hien suspended.
With Fiorentina's season effectively over and Atalanta needing points for European qualification, expect the visitors' superior squad depth to tell. Despite the hostile atmosphere at the Franchi, Atalanta should have enough quality to secure all three points and potentially clinch seventh place.
Prediction: Fiorentina 1-2 Atalanta