As Bologna prepare to host Roma in a pivotal Serie A encounter, both teams are fine-tuning their squads for the challenge ahead. Bologna, coming off a rare week of rest from their domestic and European commitments, is expected to field their strongest possible lineup. However, they must also keep in mind their upcoming midweek fixture against Inter Milan.
The home side will have to navigate the absence of Tommaso Pobega due to suspension. This opens up a spot in the midfield, with either Lewis Ferguson or Nikola Moro likely to partner Remo Freuler. While long-term absentees Oussama El Azzouzi and Nicolo Cambiaghi have resumed training, they, along with Michel Aebischer, are not yet ready for match action.
Bologna’s attack looks promising, with Italy winger Riccardo Orsolini in fine form, having contributed to six goals in his last eight league outings. He is set to support top scorer Santiago Castro in what promises to be a potent offensive lineup.
Roma, under the guidance of Claudio Ranieri, comes into the match with a near full-strength squad. Paulo Dybala, who has an impressive record of seven goals against Bologna in Serie A, seems to have rediscovered his form. The Argentine star has been involved in four goals in his last three league appearances, matching his tally from the previous 19 games.
With Zeki Celik recovered from illness and Bryan Cristante back from an ankle issue, Ranieri has the luxury of potentially fielding the same starting eleven that triumphed against Lazio. This lineup is likely to feature the dangerous duo of Dybala and Artem Dovbyk leading the attack.
Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; Holm, Beukema, Lucumi, Miranda; Freuler, Ferguson; Orsolini, Odgaard, Ndoye; Castro
Roma (3-5-2): Svilar; Mancini, Hummels, Ndicka; Saelemaekers, Kone, Paredes, Pellegrini, Angelino; Dybala, Dovbyk
