‘Can Be Difficult’ – Leeds United Loan Star Makes Versatility Admission | OneFootball

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Leeds United out-on-loan star Willy Gnonto has admitted it can be difficult to be seen as a versatile player, but he is eager to prove himself at Fiorentina.

Gnonto began his football journey in Inter Milan’s youth system, and after a spell in Switzerland with FC Zurich, Leeds United signed him in the summer of 2022, initially for their Under-21s side.

The 22-year-old was a bright talent at Leeds, but failed to kick on as expected and after falling down the pecking order under Daniel Farke, was loaned out to Fiorentina this summer.

This campaign, the Italian attacker has made four appearances in all competitions, but he has only started one game, in the Coppa Italia, and has mainly been used as a substitute during the later stages of matches.

That could change soon, with a possible opportunity for Gnonto in Fiorentina’s next Serie A game.

Being able to operate in different positions means Gnonto could struggle to make one place his own, and he admits that it is difficult.

However, the winger is optimistic given the clean slate message from Fiorentina boss Paolo Vanioli.

Gnonto told Italian broadcaster Sport Mediaset when asked whether being a versatile player is good or bad: “Both. You always have to be ready to do a lot.

“I don’t think it’s a problem for me, but sometimes it can be difficult.

“I’m open-minded.

“Vanoli asked us to forget what happened before, to start from scratch, from a clean slate.”

Gnonto admits he is keen to take the opportunity at Fiorentina, who do hold an option to buy him.

“I’m really eager to prove myself.

“I’m enthusiastic, and I’m thrilled to be here.

“I want to work hard and have fun.”

At Fiorentina, Vanoli has given regular game time to young attacker Franco Mastantuono, who is on loan from Real Madrid, but Gnonto could replace him next time out given the Argentine’s international commitments.

His current contract with Leeds United runs until 2028, and when he left Elland Road this summer, manager Daniel Farke admitted his exit left him with a tear in his eye.

Gnonto has another reason to perform at Fiorentina beyond pushing to stay at La Viola permanently as he also wants to catch the eye of Italy boss Roberto Mancini.