Gazzetta dello Sport report how Thijs Dallinga’s goalless streak at Bologna continues to be a growing concern for the club and its fans. The Dutch striker, who arrived with high expectations following a €15 million transfer (plus €3 million in bonuses), has yet to find the back of the net in competitive matches, leaving many to wonder about his future with the Rossoblu.
Despite the lack of goals, there’s a sense of underlying potential within the team. Those who work with Dallinga daily at Casteldebole training ground often use the phrase “And yet…” suggesting that behind his current struggles, there’s quality waiting to emerge. However, the stark reality remains – Dallinga’s scoresheet is blank, with only two shots on target in the recent match at Da Luz stadium still fresh in the minds of traveling fans.
His teammates are among the first to believe in his eventual breakthrough. Following the 0-0 draw against Benfica, Dallinga and a colleague reviewed his missed opportunities, mixing disappointment with lighter moments to exorcise the seemingly persistent bad luck. However, in European competition, where chances are scarce, players need to be quick, clever, and lethal – qualities Dallinga has yet to consistently display.
Manager Vincenzo Italiano has shown faith in the striker, starting him in four out of six Champions League matches. But patience may be wearing thin as the January transfer window approaches. While there are no concrete plans to make moves in the market, it’s clear that Dallinga needs to prove himself before the window closes.
The club is understandably eager to see returns on their investment. Italiano has even joked with the player about not having seen his goal celebration yet. Adding to the frustration, Dallinga has had three goals disallowed this season, further highlighting his struggle to make a meaningful impact.
If Dallinga can break his duck, it would solve many of Bologna’s rotation and market-related concerns. Until then, the “Dallinga Enigma” will continue to be a topic of discussion – a €15 million question that Bologna hopes will soon be answered with goals.
As the team prepares for their upcoming match against Fiorentina, attention also turns to Stefan Posch’s calf injury, which forced his substitution late in the Lisbon match. This unfortunate incident did, however, allow young academy product Corazza to make his Champions League debut. For the Fiorentina match, there’s a selection dilemma on the right side between De Silvestri and Holm.
