Rui Costa May Return to Florence

Former Fiorentina legend and current Benfica Sporting Director Manuel Rui Costa could return to Florence, according to rumours in the Portuguese press.  Officials inside the Stadio Artemio Franchi are reportedly looking to create an ambassadorial role similar to that of Javier Zanetti at Inter and believe that Costa would be the ideal candidate.

During his seven year spell at the Tuscan-based club, the Portuguese playmaker enjoyed an excellent relationship with fans and would seemingly relish a return not only to those supporters but to work with his friend and compatriot Paulo Sousa.

"I admit that Fiorentina may offer Rui Costa something that Benfica cannot," former Benfica Director Gaspar Ramos told the Portuguese media this week.  Whilst the deal may be a long way off yet, it is certain that his appointment may go some way to improve the somewhat tarnished reputation of Fiorentina’s hierarchy both with the fans and in the wider sporting world.