Fiorentina name former World Cup winner Fabio Grosso as new head coach

Grosso scored the decisive penalty for Italy during the 2006 World Cup final shootout victory against France. He started his coaching journey in Serie B with Bari and Hellas Verona, before managing Brescia, Sion, Frosinone and Lyon.

His most recent position was at Sassuolo, where he secured promotion in his debut season. After steering them to a mid-table finish in Serie A last term, Grosso departed the club by mutual consent on Thursday.

"I never enjoy making promises," Grosso said in a Fiorentina statement, "but conscious of the duties ahead, I feel I can immediately offer seriousness, professionalism, and dedication in creating a team that possesses courage and ambition."

Fiorentina fought against relegation in the last campaign, with Stefano Pioli dismissed in November following a run of 10 league games without a victory. Paolo Vanoli stepped in and guided them to a 15th place finish, before leaving the club on Friday.