Fiorentina may be facing a new injury concern ahead of their crucial Serie A match against Roma this Sunday night at the Stadio Olimpico. During Thursday’s Conference League semi-final against Real Betis in Seville, midfielder Danilo Cataldi was forced to leave the pitch after just 30 minutes due to a muscular problem, raising serious doubts about his availability for the weekend.
Cataldi, a former Lazio player, had been looking forward to returning to Rome to face his old rivals in one of the most anticipated matches of the season. However, his premature exit on Thursday, replaced by Yacine Adli, was accompanied by a visibly troubled expression. That moment did not go unnoticed by Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino, who may now be preparing for the possibility of another key absence in his squad.
The incident adds to Fiorentina’s growing list of concerns, as right-back Dodo is already sidelined and expected to return only next Thursday for the second leg against Real Betis. Losing Cataldi would be a further blow, particularly given his importance in orchestrating play from deep and providing balance in midfield. Fiorentina’s medical team will now be closely monitoring the midfielder, with instrumental tests scheduled to assess the extent of the injury.
Palladino will be hoping for positive news, but the signs are not encouraging. Muscle injuries, especially when occurring mid-match without direct contact, often indicate strain or fatigue, which can take days or even weeks to heal depending on the severity. With the Conference League semi-finals still ongoing and domestic competition heating up, managing player fitness becomes a delicate balancing act for the Fiorentina staff.
The match against Roma is pivotal for both teams as they battle for European qualification in Serie A. Fiorentina, who have already invested significant effort in their European campaign, cannot afford to drop points, especially against direct rivals. Roma, too, will be eager to capitalize on any weaknesses in Palladino’s side, particularly if Fiorentina arrive in Rome without their first-choice midfield anchor.
While fans wait anxiously for updates, Palladino is expected to consider alternatives in case Cataldi is ruled out. Options like Rolando Mandragora or a tactical reshuffle involving Giacomo Bonaventura could be on the table.
Fiorentina will hope to gain clarity on Cataldi’s condition by Saturday. Until then, the club must prepare for both scenarios — with or without their influential midfielder.