Wilfried Gnonto left Leeds United to join Fiorentina on an initial loan deal in the summer. The winger has now revealed some advice from manager Paolo Vanoli.
The attacker has made it clear that the desire to play for Italy again convinced him about the transfer. He did play for the Azzurri some years ago but things fell flat after his impact at Elland Road faded.
His career hasn’t gone to plan at Leeds United over the last 12 months or so. He played less than 1000 minutes in the Premier League in the 2025/26 campaign. Before that, he had sought to leave the club but didn’t get his wish.
Now, he has been told to start from a clean slate.
Player reveals Vanoli advice
Gnonto spoke to Sportmediaset about the start to life in Florence.
He was asked specifically about his skillset and what he adds to Fiorentina. This led to the Italian revealing how Vanoli has told him to forget about what happened at Leeds United.
He said – via EuropaCalcio: “Versatile? Sometimes that’s both a compliment and a trap. You have to be ready to do a lot. I don’t think it’s a problem for me; I’m very open-minded.”
Gnonto noted how he is keen to prove himself in Florence.
“Since he arrived, Coach Vanoli has asked us to forget what happened before and start over like a clean slate. I’m really eager to prove myself, I’m enthusiastic, and I’m happy to be here, working hard and having fun.”
He also reiterated his goals to play for Italy in the future.
“We all know what the national team means for every player.”
“It’s always a dream, a goal, but now I have to focus on Fiorentina, on doing well here, and if I’m there again one day, I’ll certainly be happy. It’s not the first thing on my mind.”
| Wilfried Gnonto — club stats, all competitions | 2024/25 | 2025/26 | 2026/27 so far |
|---|---|---|---|
| Club | Leeds United | Leeds United | Fiorentina |
| Appearances | 46 | 29 | 4 |
| Minutes played | 2,479 | 866 | 175 |
| Goals | 9 | 1 | 1 |
| Assists | 6 | 2 | 0 |
| Goal contributions | 15 | 3 | 1 |
Our take: Player has to wait
As things stand, the 22-year-old isn’t a regular at Fiorentina and isn’t expected to start every game. Alieu Njie and Franco Mastantuono are the regulars in the wide areas and Gnonto is seen as a back-up to them.
He started against Fiorentina’s rivals Pisa in the Coppa Italia and took the chance with both hands. That is what he has to continue doing when minutes arrive.
