Wilfried Gnonto warming up for Leeds United
Wilfried GnontoImago

Why Wilfried Gnonto has been told to forget everything from Leeds United

Dan Lewis

Assistant Editor AUTHORITY Senior editor and writer responsible for daily news flow, editorial standards, and active contribution across the site network. FOCUS Editorial oversight, newsroom workflow, verified reporting, and original content. THE BRIEF Former Sports Mole correspondent Daniel manages the network’s daily output, working between reporters and experts to ensure accuracy and speed. As a senior contributor, he also writes and publishes original content across the network.

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Wilfried Gnonto enjoyed some brilliant experiences at Leeds United, but less so in more recent times.

The 13-cap Italy international departed Elland Road at the end of the summer transfer window to join Fiorentina on loan.

That loan deal only contains an option to buy at the end of the season, rather than an obligation, so Gnonto could return to Elland Road.

He will have 12 months remaining on his contract in West Yorkshire come the end of the season.

Gnonto was used more as a fringe player last season, with his influence in the side dwindling upon promotion back to the Premier League.

And his new boss instantly issued him with some new advice upon making the move to Florence.

What advice did Paolo Vanoli give Wilfried Gnonto?

Gnonto has so far featured four times for Fiorentina, although all three Serie A appearances have come as a substitute.

The 22-year-old may be a little low on confidence right now, which is something head coach Paolo Vanoli wants to put right.

Speaking in an interview with Europa Calcio on Thursday, Gnonto said: "Since he arrived, coach Vanoli has asked us to forget what happened before and start over like a clean slate.

"I’m really eager to prove myself, I’m enthusiastic, and I’m happy to be here, working hard and having fun."

Gnonto is not the only Fiorentina player who would have been fairly low on confidence given the Italian club's struggles last season.

Wilfried Gnonto warming up for Leeds United
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How has Gnonto performed on loan with Fiorentina so far?

Gnonto has not really had too much of a chance to make an impression.

He has so far played a total of 86 minutes in Serie A and has failed to score or assist.

However, he did find the net in his only start, coming in a Coppa Italia tie against Pisa.

But living off 10 minutes here and there at the end of league matches is hardly going to get Gnonto back to his best.

Unless his situation changes, there is no chance Fiorentina will take up that option to purchase him outright at the end of the season.

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