Aquilani sets sights on Europe, Italy

Alberto Aquilani is hoping Fiorentina can continue their impressive league form in 2013 and fight for European qualification this season.

The Italy international has been at the heart of an exciting Fiorentina side so far this campaign, with the team lying third in the Serie A standings, just a point behind second-placed Lazio.

Aquilani believes Vincenzo Montella’s men are good value for their league position, and insisted their current form is proof that he made the right decision to join the club over the summer.

“I am very satisfied and being in third place is further confirmation I made the right choice,” he told Tuttosport.

“Nobody has really put us under pressure, even when winning, as we always played good football. We want Europe and a team like ours must have the ambition to go all the way. It’s not part of this club’s attitude to hold back.

“I don’t know if we have the strongest midfield in Serie A, but we certainly meld together our different qualities and characteristics. I also admire the midfields of Juventus, Roma and Napoli.”

Aquilani added that he feels suggestions he is injury-prone are unfair, and is desperate to force his way into Italy coach Cesare Prandelli’s plans ahead of the World Cup in 2014.

“Even if I fell down the stairs and broke my leg, people would say it was because I was fragile. I am used to it now, but hope I am stronger than certain labels,” he said.

“I’ve signed a three-year contract and hope to respect it. I have changed a great deal, but I’m happy and satisfied here now.

“Of course I dream of taking part in the World Cup. Cesare Prandelli knows what I can give.”