Torbjorn Heggem is proving to be the most convincing new arrival, while coach Vincenzo Italiano awaits crucial signals from Nadir Zortea and anticipates Federico Bernardeschi`s rise, all while looking forward to further contributions from new talents to propel the team forward.
Heggem is performing well, while others are less so. The anticipation for the impact of summer signings is high: even though Bologna has already earned 10 points in 6 matches (a decade-long record), it`s plausible that the growing contribution from these reinforcements could provide the decisive boost Vincenzo Italiano is looking for. The international break offers an opportunity for those who remained at Casteldebole: Heggem will play for Norway, Vitik for the Czech Republic, but all other summer arrivals will train with the team. The goal is to accelerate their integration and cohesion, crucial elements for the upcoming three consecutive away games.
Heggem Stands Out, Zortea and Vitik Seek Consistency
But how have the new summer signings performed so far? Nadir Zortea is still trying to fully grasp Italiano`s complex tactical schemes. More inclined to attack than defend, the former Atalanta player struggles to find the right balance between the two phases, showing flashes of offensive brilliance but also defensive lapses in tracking back and covering. Torbjorn Heggem has stood out more, with 5 starts in 6 matches. Considering that Bologna previously had central defenders like Beukema and Calafiori, his reliability and maturity suggest he will be a key figure for years to come, a role that the talented Lucumi is unlikely to fill, whether due to market reasons or lack of consistency. Another central defender, Martin Vitik, younger than Heggem, has started 4 out of 5 games, showing both highs and lows. He has good ideas when pushing forward but sometimes forgets his defensive duties, although his consistent presence from the first minute in both Europa League matches indicates European trust in him.
Encouraging Signs from Bernardeschi
While Ibrahim Sulemana, a central midfielder on loan from Atalanta who arrived injured, is yet to be assessed, let`s turn to the wingers. Federico Bernardeschi showed significant progress against Pisa, surpassing his previous performances: it was just a matter of time and fitness. He hasn`t yet returned to his optimal levels, but the last league match highlighted improvements in his initiatives, vision, and sprint. Italiano had commented in September: `He`s coming from three years in a completely different football environment than Italy, so he needs to make a quick mental adjustment, because our football demands quickness and intensity. As soon as he`s back in shape, with that left foot of his, he will make a difference, and he knows it.` Bernardeschi is aware of this, so much so that coming on after halftime against Pisa, he improved his precision, runs, and initiatives compared to earlier matches. He also earned a near-penalty by weaving between two opponents and delivered a golden ball that Jonathan Rowe back-heeled high.
Rowe: A Promise to Deliver
Then there`s Rowe. He possesses talent, speed, and acceleration, and specific training, similar to Ndoye`s, will help him become more decisive in front of goal. Italiano is convinced of this. Against Pisa, he squandered three excellent opportunities. `He owes us three goals, I told him,` Italiano quipped with a wry smile after the Pisa match. `But if he unlocks his potential…`. This burst of performance is also expected from a player who cost 19.5 million euros.
