Fabio Grosso is no longer the coach in Florence – but there could be legal repercussions. © ANSA / CLAUDIO GIOVANNINI

"If you care about me, throw me out."

Fabio Grosso's tenure as Fiorentina's coach lasted only three games. Following a dispute with the sporting management, the 2006 World Cup winner was dismissed. Now a mudslinging match is looming.

September 09, 2026

From: cst

"This team is uncoachable. If you care about me, fire me," Grosso reportedly told his sporting director, Fabio Paratici, on Sunday. The former sporting director of Tottenham and Juventus had invested no less than €130 million in the summer, bringing 13 new players to Florence. Paratici and Grosso have known each other for years, having previously worked together in Juve's youth academy.

But apparently, Grosso wasn't convinced by the new signings, as reported by Gazzetta dello Sport. The coach is said to have transferred his negativity to the team, according to an article published on Wednesday. Paratici hadn't actually wanted to fire his coach. Despite three defeats at the start of the season, Grosso still enjoyed the sporting director's confidence, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Resignation is out of the question: The club intends to sue.

Grosso reportedly informed his superiors on Sunday that he no longer felt well enough to coach the team. Paratici allegedly tried to persuade the former professional to change his mind, but without success. Grosso is said to have refused to resign. Paratici was left with no other option than to dismiss the coach.

Fabio Paratici, Fiorentina's sporting director. © AFP / MARCO BERTORELLO

Therefore, Fiorentina now intends to sue their former coach. Grosso only signed a lucrative contract in Florence this summer. Club lawyers will now examine whether there are valid reasons to release Grosso from his contract. Otherwise, the club faces potentially expensive repercussions.

predecessor as successor

The club has since found a new coach. Paolo Vanoli, Grosso's predecessor, is back at Fiorentina. The 54-year-old was already brought in last year after a disastrous start to the season. At that time, the Tuscan club parted ways with Stefano Pioli.