Bologna coach praises Gasperini and sees the Europa League clash as a major opportunity
Vincenzo Italiano knows Bologna FC 1909 face a major challenge when they host AS Roma in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League Round of 16 tie.
Speaking ahead of the match at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, the Bologna coach acknowledged the quality of Roma and stressed that his team must deliver a near-perfect performance to stay competitive.
“We hope to play a real match, almost a perfect one,” Italiano said. “Our goal is to try to put this Roma side in difficulty.”
Respect for Gasperini
Italiano reserved strong praise for Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini, describing him as a major influence for coaches across Italy.
“I have enormous respect for Gasperini,” Italiano said. “What he achieved with Atalanta and what he’s continuing to show now is an example for all coaches.”
The two managers have crossed paths several times during their careers, and Italiano expects another intense tactical battle.
“It will be a pleasure to greet him tomorrow,” he added.
Roma a Different Team Now
Italiano also pointed out how much Roma have evolved since the start of the season.
“That match was the opening day of the campaign,” he explained. “A lot of time has passed.”
Since then, Roma have grown into a team capable of maintaining high intensity while combining physical strength with technical quality.
“They keep very high rhythms, exactly how their coach wants,” Italiano said. “They’ve added a great striker and have become very solid defensively.”
A Chance to Continue the European Run
Despite the difficulty of the matchup, Italiano sees the tie as an opportunity for Bologna to extend their European journey.
“European competitions are always fascinating,” he said. “This is an opportunity to keep going in this tournament.”
The Bologna coach admitted he was disappointed to face another Italian team so early in the knockout phase.
“It’s a shame,” he said. “Both teams could have gone far together, and instead one will be eliminated.”
Squad Rotation and Attacking Options
Italiano also discussed the management of his attacking options ahead of the match.
Forward Santiago Castro has played heavily in recent weeks due to injury problems for teammate Thijs Dallinga, who has been recovering from tendinitis.
“Castro has played many matches because Dallinga has had physical issues,” Italiano explained. “But once Dallinga is fully fit again, we’ll rotate more.”
Midfielder Jens Odgaard remains a key tactical weapon thanks to his versatility.
“He’s become someone who can influence the match in many ways,” Italiano said. “He gives us availability and flexibility both from the start and during the game.”
The Challenge of European Football
Italiano also addressed the broader question of whether Italian clubs are falling behind other European leagues.
While acknowledging the intense level of competition, he rejected the idea of a dramatic gap.
“Participating in European finals is already a great achievement,” he said. “Winning them is extremely difficult.”
According to the Bologna coach, differences in tempo and technical speed often make the biggest impact.
“Top teams move the ball incredibly quickly,” Italiano said. “The rhythm and intensity are very high.”
With a place in the Europa League quarterfinals at stake, Bologna now prepare for one of the most important nights of their season.
