Bologna`s coach emphasizes his dedication to the club and responds to Fabregas`s criticism.
Vincenzo Italiano, aged 47.
One hundred and twenty-three days after the Coppa Italia final, Vincenzo Italiano`s Bologna is set to face AC Milan once again, this time at San Siro in a Serie A fixture. The team is eager to secure a significant result that could propel them towards European aspirations. Italiano shared his expectations: “We need some time to understand who we are and what we will become. I`m pleased with Rowe, but we must deliver a strong performance immediately. We played well against Como, but we can do more. Everyone knows Milan`s objectives; it will be a tough match because it`s Milan, and we`re playing at San Siro. We need to fight as we always do. They quickly avenged their loss to Cremonese in Lecce; qualitatively, they are exceptional, having added a Ballon d`Or winner and more. We must put them in difficulty from every perspective. Modric brings experience and a desire to make an impact even without the ball; you have to try and limit such champions. We approach San Siro with great humility, but, I repeat, seeking a battle.”
On Milan Rumors and Fabregas`s Comments
Addressing speculations that linked him to Milan this summer, before Bologna secured him with a contract extension until 2027, Italiano was unequivocal: “It`s pointless to answer such questions. My focus has always been Bologna because I`m happy here; there`s everything needed to grow, and the environment naturally pushes you to do so. While appreciation is pleasing, my thoughts are solely on Bologna. Each year becomes more challenging, requiring maximum concentration. Soon, matches will start on Thursdays and Sundays, and we need to immediately show signs of a team where every individual is ready. Did losing at San Siro before last year`s final provide valuable insights? That game gave us a lot of information that we later applied in the Coppa Italia.”
Italiano also responded to Cesc Fàbregas`s remarks, who had stated he had never seen an attractive Bologna game under his management: “I often speak with Cesc, and I enjoy it. There`s always something important to gain from chatting with colleagues. I believe I`ve learned from him, and he from me. Everyone expresses their own opinions, but I think it`s essential to respect opponents. You have to try to neutralize their strengths and then play your own game.”
Updates on New and Returning Players
The coach then provided updates on new signings and key players, including Bernardeschi and Castro: “All the new players are driven by great professionalism. Bernardeschi comes from three years in a different footballing environment, and he quickly realized the difference. He needs to regain his rhythm; I`m very close to him. We`ll see if he starts or comes on later, once he fully reintegrates into the `Italian football mindset.` Santiago Castro is doing well; we had all forgotten that he played the last three months of last season with a foot injury. Santi is back to his old self, showing great commitment off the ball and being the usual Castro with the ball. Heggem? He`s a soldier. Lucumi? We had a conversation at the end of the transfer window. He qualified for the World Cup, but I know he`s a serious person, and I`ll have a strong and mature player available. Everyone here appreciates him, and when he`s on form, he`s a top-level player.”
