Wilfried Gnonto has revealed Paolo Vanoli told Fiorentina’s players to forget about the past and start again with a “clean slate” following the winger’s summer exit from Leeds United.
The 22-year-old joined Fiorentina on an initial loan after a difficult period at Elland Road in which his playing time had significantly decreased.
Gnonto has previously admitted that returning to Italy was partly motivated by his ambition to earn another opportunity with the Italian national team.
For now, though, his manager wants the focus firmly on what happens in Florence.
Vanoli tells Gnonto to forget the past
Speaking to Sportmediaset, Gnonto discussed his versatility and the instructions he has received since arriving at Fiorentina.
“Versatile? Sometimes that’s both a compliment and a trap,” he said. “You have to be ready to do a lot. I don’t think it’s a problem for me; I’m very open-minded.”
More significantly, Gnonto revealed Vanoli’s message about leaving previous difficulties behind.
“Since he arrived, Coach Vanoli has asked us to forget what happened before and start over like a clean slate,” Gnonto explained.
“I’m really eager to prove myself, I’m enthusiastic, and I’m happy to be here, working hard and having fun.”
That fresh start could be particularly important for Gnonto after a frustrating final period at Leeds. He played fewer than 1,000 Premier League minutes during the 2025/26 season and had previously tried unsuccessfully to secure a move away.
Italy remains a target
A return to the Italian national team remains one of Gnonto’s ambitions, although he insists his immediate priority is establishing himself at Fiorentina.
“We all know what the national team means for every player,” he said.
“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.”
Gnonto is not currently guaranteed regular starts in Florence. Alieu Njie and Franco Mastantuono have been preferred in the wide positions, leaving the Leeds loanee needing to make the most of his opportunities.
He did exactly that when handed a start against Pisa in the Coppa Italia. Now the challenge is turning those opportunities into a more prominent role.
Key Points
- Wilfried Gnonto joined Fiorentina on an initial loan from Leeds United during the summer.
- Paolo Vanoli has told his players to forget previous difficulties and begin with a “clean slate”.
- Gnonto says he is enthusiastic about proving himself after a frustrating period at Leeds.
- Returning to the Italy squad remains an ambition, but Gnonto says Fiorentina is his immediate priority.
- The 22-year-old is not currently a guaranteed starter and must continue taking his chances when they arrive.
What’s Next
Gnonto needs regular football if he is to rebuild the momentum that previously made him an Italy international.
His immediate task is therefore to force his way further into Vanoli’s plans at Fiorentina, particularly with competition for places in the wide positions.
Strong performances could also revive his international prospects. For now, though, there is no indication that an Italy recall is imminent, and Gnonto himself accepts that performing consistently for Fiorentina has to come first.
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