Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano addressed the media ahead of his team’s UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield. The Italian coach expressed a mix of excitement and determination as his side prepares to face one of Europe’s most formidable teams.
Italiano began by acknowledging the significance of the venue: “This is my first time at Anfield, except for De Silvestri who won here a few years ago. We’ll see if tomorrow we can put in a great performance. I told the boys that our objective must be to leave the field with our heads held high.”
The Bologna boss highlighted the challenge posed by Liverpool, noting their quality and home advantage. He also praised midfielder Remo Freuler as a natural leader whose international experience will guide the younger players.
Regarding tactics, Italiano emphasized the need for intensity and improvement across all aspects of their game. “Liverpool knows how to put you in difficulty from all points of view. They jump on you if you’re timid, and they know how to keep possession. Each of us must give our maximum; we must be concentrated since this is a mini-tournament and we need to optimize everything possible.”
Italiano made it clear that Bologna is not content to be mere spectators in the competition: “We don’t want to be extras; we want to play our matches with great pride and showcase our abilities. Even in the league, we must try to climb back up.”
The coach also touched on the challenges of balancing European and domestic commitments, noting that the players are beginning to adapt to the rhythm of European fixtures. “It’s a different mentality. From this point of view, we’ve started to watch footage of Liverpool, and I’ve seen the players focused.”
Italiano concluded with a passionate statement about his love for the game and his team’s journey: “I would play all the matches, even those in training. Being on the field and then moving to the bench is a whole different life. Sometimes you want to enter the field to work off some anger. In Bologna, we’ve begun a beautiful journey.”
