The Empoli-Florence axis between rivalry and future

by Niccolo Pistolesi

There are about 40 kilometers that separate Empoli from Florence , two cities geographically close but divided by an intense and historic football rivalry . A rivalry that ignites on the field every time the two teams face each other, between a desire for revenge, territorial pride and healthy competitive spirit. But off the pitch, the boundary becomes more blurred. Where sport is a battle, the transfer market often becomes a bridge. And one of the busiest bridges in Italy, in recent years, is precisely the one between Castellani and Franchi.

Over the years, many players have traveled the route between the two banks of the Arno. And also in this summer session, the Empoli-Florence axis has been rekindled. The name at the center of the conversations is that of Jacopo Fazzini , a midfielder born in 2003, one of the most promising talents to emerge from the Empoli youth system. A player who, for his technical qualities and vision of the game, is considered a potential modern number ten: quick, intelligent, eclectic.

His last season, however, was not the one of his consecration. On the contrary, it was a year of alternating current. The fault of a series of physical problems, especially muscular, that slowed him down in the crucial moments of the season. Also the fault, perhaps, of some transfer rumors that distracted him. Fazzini was like a comet: visible and bright only at times. He lit up at the start of the championship, giving a glimpse of his potential, and then again at the end, when Empoli was fighting to stay in Serie A. In between, a long period of darkness, of waiting, of absence from the stage. An intermittent star, who now however seems ready to find a new trajectory in the sky of the top division.

His future could be tinged with purple. Fiorentina has in fact identified in him the right profile to reinforce the midfield, and in recent weeks the contacts between the parties have intensified. Rocco Commisso's club wants to rejuvenate and make the midfield more dynamic, and Fazzini represents an interesting solution both as a mezzala and as an attacking midfielder. A player capable of interpreting multiple roles with tactical intelligence and technical quality.

According to the latest rumors, the negotiation is at an advanced stage. Fiorentina has already reached a basic agreement with Empoli. There is talk of an operation worth around 10 million euros plus 2 million in bonuses, with room for definition that could be closed shortly.

If on the one hand we talk about imminence, on the other we are instead on suggestions. Also in the sights of the Viola is Tino Anjorin , English midfielder born in 2001. Arrived last year amidst general curiosity, Anjorin has had an inconsistent but interesting performance: 22 appearances, 2 goals and 3 assists, despite being affected by various muscular problems. A player with physique, technique and vision, he is another profile that intrigues the scouting department of the Viola. At the moment it is only a survey, but the interest is real. Anjorin is a precious element in the Empoli squad and could become a hot name in the coming weeks.