At the age of 39, most footballers would be thinking of winding down their careers, possibly enjoying a farewell season in a less demanding league, or stepping into coaching roles. But Edin Džeko is no ordinary footballer. After concluding his contract with Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, where he defied age with a prolific season, the Bosnian forward appears set to return to the Italian Serie A — a league that once witnessed his finest moments in an AS Roma shirt.
Initially, it was Bologna who took the first steps toward bringing Džeko back to Italy. The Rossoblù, eager to add an experienced figure to lead their front line, made an early approach. Yet, as often happens in football, dynamics shifted. In recent weeks, Fiorentina have emerged as the frontrunner in this unexpected transfer pursuit — and they seem to be making all the right moves to secure his signature.
Still Lethal at 39
Džeko’s recent stats suggest that his appetite for goals hasn’t waned. In his final season with Fenerbahçe, he found the back of the net 21 times and delivered 8 assists. These numbers would be impressive for a striker in his prime, let alone someone nearing 40. Such form has evidently not gone unnoticed in Italy, where the physical and tactical demands of Serie A are notoriously high.
The allure of a player who combines technical intelligence with physical presence and an encyclopedic knowledge of movement and positioning is too good to pass up — especially for a side like Fiorentina, who have long been craving a dependable goalscorer.
A Familiar Face on the Sideline
One of the key elements tipping the scales in Fiorentina’s favor seems to be the appointment of Stefano Pioli as their new head coach. Džeko is reportedly enthusiastic about the idea of working with Pioli, whose managerial style is known for its adaptability and effective man-management — particularly when it comes to veteran players.
Pioli’s reputation for maximizing the impact of seasoned forwards may have rekindled Džeko’s desire for one last competitive adventure. And unlike other offers that may have been on the table, Fiorentina’s proposal includes a clear role, vision, and ambition — three things that matter to a player of Džeko’s pedigree at this stage of his journey.
Contract Details and Squad Role
According to behind-the-scenes chatter, Fiorentina have laid out a one-year contract for Džeko, with an option for extension based on performances. There are also whispers that they may offer a two-year deal straight away, considering his fitness levels and the immediate value he could add on and off the pitch.
At Fiorentina, he is expected to play alongside or mentor Moise Kean — another striker trying to find his consistency and identity in top-tier football. Džeko’s calm presence, tactical maturity, and leadership could be crucial in helping Kean evolve into a more complete player.
More importantly, Džeko will not be brought in just as a mentor. With Fiorentina eyeing European qualification and aiming to challenge Italy’s top six, they need goals — and goals are what Džeko brings.
A Veteran of European Football
Edin Džeko’s career trajectory reads like the résumé of a man who has seen and done it all. Starting from the Bundesliga with Wolfsburg, where he first burst onto the scene as a lethal finisher, he moved on to Manchester City in the Premier League, where he was part of their first-ever Premier League title-winning side. Then came his storied spell with Roma, followed by a successful stint at Inter Milan where he helped guide the Nerazzurri to domestic and European glory.
Most recently, his Turkish adventure with Fenerbahçe proved that he still had the fire and quality to compete at a high level. Few strikers can boast such a varied and successful journey across Europe’s top five leagues.
Why This Move Makes Sense
For Fiorentina, signing Edin Džeko would not only be a statement of intent but a smart tactical move. It would provide the team with a proven goalscorer who can make an immediate impact while also supporting the development of younger players in the squad.
For Džeko, returning to Italy — a country where he spent some of his most satisfying football years — makes sense emotionally and professionally. It’s a place where his style of play is appreciated, where his experience is valued, and where he can write one last compelling chapter before hanging up his boots.
As the deal inches closer to completion, fans of Italian football may once again get the chance to see one of Europe’s most underrated forwards grace the pitches of Serie A. And for Džeko, this return might just be a perfect closing arc to a remarkable career.
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