Dragusin Enthusiastic About Fiorentina but Tottenham Helped Me Grow: Defender Returns to Italy

FolioPitch.com – 09 July 2026 | Radu Dragusin has expressed his excitement about joining Fiorentina, but acknowledges that his time at Tottenham Hotspur was instrumental in his development. The Romanian defender completed a loan move to the Viola with an obligation to buy, marking his return to Serie A after a challenging stint in the Premier League. Dragusin enthusiastic about Fiorentina but Tottenham helped me grow, as he stated in his first interview after the transfer.

Dragusin, who previously played for Juventus, Sampdoria, Salernitana, and Genoa, joined Tottenham in January 2024 for €28 million. However, a severe anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2025 sidelined him for nearly a year, limiting his opportunities. Now fully recovered, he is eager to restart his career in Italy. “I feel really good, I am so happy to be here and can’t wait to get started with the lads on the pitch,” Dragusin told the official Fiorentina website. “The experience at Tottenham helped me grow a great deal, both as a player and a man. I carry with me the many tough duels I had with opposition strikers, the quality of the players I faced. It helped me to mature and I hope to bring that experience with me in this new team.”

Dragusin enthusiastic about Fiorentina but Tottenham helped me grow — this sentiment underscores his gratitude for the challenges faced in England. The 23-year-old center-back had already visited Florence as a tourist while playing for Genoa and is thrilled to make the city his home. “I had already come to Florence a few times when playing for Genoa, just as a tourist to visit this beautiful city and its amiable people. There is a big season ahead of us and we certainly want to do well,” he added.

The transfer involves a €1.5 million loan fee with an obligation to buy for €17.5 million, triggered after his 22nd appearance for Fiorentina. Dragusin revealed that he already has a strong rapport with several teammates, including Albert Gudmundsson (formerly of Genoa), Nicolò Fagioli, Moise Kean, and Luca Ranieri. “I already played with Albert Gudmundsson at Genoa and we have a great rapport. I also know Fagioli, Kean and Ranieri, so we exchanged some messages over the last few days. I couldn’t wait to get here,” he said.

The move reunites Dragusin with Italian football, where he initially rose to prominence. His career began at Juventus’ youth academy in 2018, followed by loans at Sampdoria and Salernitana, before flourishing at Genoa from 2022. That form earned him the big-money move to Tottenham, but injuries hampered his progress. Now, with a fresh start at Fiorentina, Dragusin is determined to showcase the growth he achieved in the Premier League. Dragusin enthusiastic about Fiorentina but Tottenham helped me grow — this narrative is likely to resonate with Viola fans who hope to see the best version of the defender.

Fiorentina’s sporting director praised Dragusin’s character and physicality, noting that his experience in England has added a new dimension to his game. The club is aiming for a strong campaign, and Dragusin’s arrival bolsters their defensive options. Dragusin enthusiastic about Fiorentina but Tottenham helped me grow — as he embarks on this new chapter, he brings not only skill but also resilience forged through adversity.

In conclusion, Radu Dragusin’s return to Serie A with Fiorentina marks a pivotal moment in his career. His enthusiasm for the move is palpable, yet he remains grounded, acknowledging that his time at Tottenham was a crucial learning period. With a clean bill of health and a desire to prove himself, Dragusin is poised to become a key figure for the Viola. Fans will be watching closely as he integrates into the squad and aims to help Fiorentina achieve their goals. The blend of Italian familiarity and Premier League toughness makes Dragusin a unique asset — one that could define his team’s season.