Giancarlo Marocchi, a former Bologna player, offered his insights into the club`s current situation during an interview with Corriere di Bologna. He began by addressing their imminent debut in the Europa League: “When things are going well, expectations naturally rise. So, I have considerable expectations and hope they advance very far. Given their performance last year in the Champions League, the minimum objective is to progress past the group stage and reach the knockout rounds, period. Reaching the top eight would be excellent, but even playing in the playoffs wouldn`t be an issue; it just means another trip.”
Marocchi also commented on the team`s schedule, recalling, “Last year, the Champions League draw initially seemed very favorable. However, as each matchday passed, we realized those opponents were playing exceptionally well, with three or four of them occupying top league positions. The takeaway is: you have to play every game. It`s pointless to make predictions now; the true strength of an opponent is only revealed when you face them.”
The former Rossoblù midfielder then turned his attention to Vincenzo Italiano`s squad composition, remarking, “For my taste, it`s far too large. Behind the striker, for those three attacking roles, there are eight players. How wonderful it is when you have clear starters and can make definite choices with your (presumed) second-string players! I advocate for a more compact squad; after all, they are all talented. Rotations? It`s not easy with 25 players; you always risk removing key reference points. All players are useful, but not all are equal. When it comes to Castro or Dallinga, Santi is currently the starter, but Italiano will ultimately consider the opponents` characteristics and the players` current form; fitness coaches and medical staff will certainly influence these decisions.”
