Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano expressed excitement and determination as his team prepares to make their UEFA Champions League return after a 60-year absence. The Italian side will host Shakhtar Donetsk at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on Wednesday, September 18, with kickoff scheduled for 18:45 local time.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Italiano said, “There’s great emotion facing such a prestigious competition. I’ve had the opportunity in these two years to be the protagonist of a journey that led me to two finals. It’s a path that makes you grow and allows you to find great insights to improve.”
The Bologna coach emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating, “We’ll go to beautiful stadiums, against opponents who have dictated the law in Europe. It will be a journey to be experienced fully. We don’t want to be mere spectators; we want to challenge everyone.”
Italiano acknowledged the high level of competition but remained confident in his team’s abilities, especially when playing at home. “The level will be high; we’re facing an opponent who has been playing in this competition for many years. Playing at home is an advantage, and here we must assert who we are,” he declared.
Bologna forward Riccardo Orsolini shared his excitement about the upcoming match, saying, “It will be a great opportunity for everyone. We must prove that we deserve to be in this competition.” He also mentioned the team’s efforts to manage pre-match tension, adding, “Finding strategies to ease the tension is important with these types of matches. The coach and staff are helping us a lot to grow, and these games can only benefit us.”
Team captain Lorenzo De Silvestri, despite not being included in the Champions League squad, expressed his support for the team. “Being left out makes me feel a bit bad, but on the other hand, I feel so integrated that I believe I can help right away. I’m happy that Italiano invited me to this press conference. I feel like a true Bolognese in every way,” he said.
