Massimo Franchi, a Tuttosport correspondent, doubts Alexander Kokorin will feature for Fiorentina in the upcoming season. The journalist notes bookmakers’ ratings while outlining the club’s forward lineup as a potential obstacle for Kokorin’s minutes. There is stiff competition for attacking roles at Fiorentina, and the squad could see several big-name forwards rotating, with some expected to start the season on the bench.
Franchi argues that Kokorin’s inclusion in the first-team plans would come as a surprise. The forward, who joined Fiorentina from Spartak Moscow in 2021, has long been a well-known figure in Russian football, having previously plied his trade with Zenit, Sochi, Dynamo Moscow, and Anzhi. His move to Florence marked a new chapter, but certainty about his role remains elusive as the season approaches. The forward’s chances will be measured against the form and fitness of teammates, as well as tactical choices from the coaching staff.
Last summer Fiorentina sent Kokorin on loan to Aris in Cyprus for a year. Reports from Cyprus repeatedly indicated that the club would welcome keeping the Russian striker beyond the loan if possible. Across the previous campaign, Kokorin appeared 27 times in the Cypriot league and found the net 11 times, contributing to the team’s overall success. While he helped Aris secure achievements on the field, discussions about his long-term future with Fiorentina continued behind the scenes.
The question remains whether Kokorin can prove his value in a crowded attacking department. Fiorentina’s transfer strategy and squad depth will heavily influence the decision, and the player’s adaptability to the team’s style will matter just as much as his goal-scoring record. As the club assesses its options, some observers point to Kokorin’s past experiences with top Russian clubs as a potential asset when used effectively. Former teammates and coaching staff have been cited in various reports, suggesting that a well-timed return or loan move could reunite the player with familiar systems.
The broader context is that Fiorentina has consistently evaluated foreign forwards who bring technical skill, versatility, and pace. Kokorin’s history in domestic and international competitions provides a profile that managers occasionally find attractive when building a dynamic frontline. Whether his future lies with Fiorentina or elsewhere, the conversation underscores how modern teams balance squad depth, depth of talent, and the financial pragmatism required in today’s football landscape. The ongoing dialogue between the club, the player, and his representatives will help determine the path forward, with decisions framed by performance data, tactical fit, and long-term development goals.
Cited opinions and recent assessments from media outlets emphasize the careful arithmetic behind squad selection. While some pundits highlight Kokorin’s ability to contribute meaningful minutes, others stress the need for clear competition and minutes distribution among forwards. The final verdict will hinge on pre-season form, injuries, and how well the player integrates with Fiorentina’s pressing style and offensive schemes. The season ahead promises to reveal whether Kokorin can carve out a consistent role or if his path lies elsewhere in European football. [citation needed]