As Bologna and Torino gear up for their upcoming Serie A encounter, both teams are dealing with a mix of returning players and ongoing absences.
Bologna’s manager Vincenzo Italiano received a boost with the return of key winger Riccardo Orsolini to full training following a thigh injury. Orsolini’s comeback could prove crucial for the team’s attacking options. However, the squad still faces challenges with Lewis Ferguson and Jens Odgaard unavailable due to ongoing injuries.
In the forward line, Bologna’s top scorer is expected to feature alongside Santiago Castro, who has already netted six times this season. However, Thijs Dallinga is also in contention for a starting spot, adding some healthy competition to the attack.
The right-back position presents an interesting selection dilemma for Italiano. New arrival Davide Calabria, who previously captained AC Milan, is vying for a starting berth against established options Emil Holm and Lorenzo De Silvestri.
On the other side, Torino have been active in the transfer market, bringing in Eljif Elmas, Cristiano Biraghi, and Cesare Casadei during the winter window. Of these new signings, Casadei appears the most likely to feature in Friday’s match.
Torino’s midfield options have been impacted by recent events. Samuele Ricci is suspended for one match, while Adrien Tameze picked up a muscular injury during the team’s recent draw with Genoa. These absences could pave the way for Casadei to make his full debut for the Turin outfit.
The visitors are also dealing with longer-term injury concerns, as Alieu Njie joins Perr Schuurs and Duvan Zapata on the sidelines.
Bologna (4-2-3-1): Skorupski; Calabria, Beukema, Lucumi, Miranda; Freuler, Moro; Orsolini, Dominguez, Ndoye; Castro
Torino (4-2-3-1): Milinkovic-Savic; Pedersen, Maripan, Coco, Sosa; Casadei, Linetty; Lazaro, Vlasic, Karamoh; Adams
