Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano addressed the media ahead of his team’s upcoming Serie A match against Empoli, reflecting on their recent performance and looking forward to both domestic and European challenges.
Italiano began by acknowledging the need for improvement after their 3-0 loss to Napoli: “We’ve analyzed the game, we need to improve and grow, but we’re only in the second week of our new journey. Against Udinese, we had an excellent performance, while in Naples we had some problems. We made too many technical errors, which led to conceding some breaks in transition.”
Addressing concerns about Bologna’s high defensive line, Italiano emphasized a holistic approach: “The problem is never just one department. We need to analyze everything. At times, the high press worked and we could have scored, then there were moments where we fell back well, but we still need to fine-tune some mechanisms.”
On the Champions League draw, Italiano remained cautious: “I didn’t hope for one team or another, they’re all strong teams. We must approach this journey with enthusiasm and desire, trying not to take strolls but with the intent to challenge everyone.”
Regarding player availability, Italiano provided updates: “Ndoye will miss the Empoli game, but I’m convinced he’ll be available after the break, as will Erlic. Iling? He’s coming from three weeks where he trained separately and did very little, he’s not in a condition to start.”
The manager had positive words for Thijs Dallinga: “Dallinga is doing much better. In Naples, it seemed he had a more serious problem, but it wasn’t anything particular and now he’s improving. I see a different Dallinga, less shy, he’s gaining confidence with his teammates and understanding what Serie A is.”
On recent transfer activity, Italiano stated: “Once the market is closed, everything then passes to the coach, who must try to develop everyone. We’ve lost two or three important pieces, but those who have arrived are in the same conditions as their predecessors.”
Finally, Italiano welcomed the arrival of Casale: “I spoke with Casale and the first question I asked him was ‘are you happy?’. He can’t wait to start, he felt appreciated, and when that’s the case, you start from a good base. We’re bringing in a strong player who works well individually and as part of the defense.”
