Over 10,000 fans turned out to welcome former Milan and Parma striker Alberto Gilardino to Fiorentina on Friday.

“We want to give the fans great joy,” said the 2006 World Cup winner who has gone through a lean period with the Rossoneri.

“We have the opportunity to do so, as the squad is strong and the club invested very well in the transfer market.

“Our first objective is to get past the Champions League preliminary round and reach the competition proper.”

Gilardino added: “Mutu and I make a fantastic partnership.”