Nickname(s): The Purples
All-Time Ranking: 5th
2007/2008 Finish: 4th
2008/2009 Position (as of 04/07): 5th
Coach: Cesare Prandelli
Key Players: Alberto Gilardino, Dario Dainelli, Adrian Mutu
History:
Fiorentino (ACF) was founded in 1926 and only four clubs have spent more time in Serie A since. Though they have only captured the league title twice, they have hoisted the Coppa Italia trophy on six occassions. They also have had some success in continental tournaments, including the 56/57 European Cup where they finished as runners-up.
ACF has played at the large Stadio Artemio Franchi since 1931 and fans have filled that venue for years to see Serie A stars like Giancarlo Antognoni, Roberto Baggio, Gabriel Batistuta and Luca Toni play for the Purple over the years. Although the squad was penalized due to the 2006 match-fixing scandal, they have returned to prominence.
American Sports Doppleganger:
Fiorentina has never been able to compete over the long haul with the likes of Juventus, Milan and Inter. Despite its well-established history, the squad has struggled to crack into the “elite” catergory. Thus, I think the Purple are much like the Atlanta Braves of MLB because both are always good, but neither is usually good enough to win consistently.
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