Della Valle steps down as Fiorentina president

Serie A giants Fiorentina announced today that Andrea Della Valle has stepped down as president of the club with immediate effect.

Andrea, brother of Fiorentina owner Diego Della Valle, took over the role in 2002, but faced criticism from the Viola fans for the club’s lacklustre transfer activity this summer.

A statement from ACF Fiorentina read: “During today’s board meeting, Andrea Della Valle has announced his decision to leave the presidency of the club and his role will be temporarily covered by club vice-president Mario Cognigni.”

Fiorentina sold Brazilian star Felipe Melo to Juventus this summer, a move which angered their supporters, who were also displeased at them loaning Papa Waigo to Southampton.

The Florence-based outfit acquired midfielder Savio Nsereko as their main signing this summer from West Ham United.

Fiorentina are fourth in the Serie A standings, having collected ten points out of a possible 15 so far.