Vincenzo Italiano shared his thoughts on Jonathan Rowe’s absence from the starting lineup in Bologna’s 3-2 triumph over Napoli, acknowledging that his own future with the club “will be discussed” with directors soon.
The team had experienced a dip in form towards the end of the season, failing to score in their previous four matches across Serie A and the Europa League. However, they secured a significant upset with this 3-2 victory at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, completing a season sweep against Napoli.
Federico Bernardeschi and a Riccardo Orsolini penalty initially put Bologna in a commanding 2-0 lead. Napoli fought back with goals from Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Alisson Santos to level the score at 2-2. The decisive moment came in stoppage time with a spectacular acrobatic volley from Jonathan Rowe, who, according to Italiano, was not in the starting XI due to a minor injury.
Italiano Expresses Joy Over Bologna’s Response
“Bernardeschi joked that it’s in his contract to kick bottles on the touchline whenever he’s substituted,” Italiano quipped to DAZN Italia.
“I’m pleased for Rowe. I told him he could come on for 20-25 minutes and bring his unpredictability because he had a painful bruise on his foot from the Cagliari match and hadn’t trained much last week.”
“When a player with his quality enters the field, he must use his talent and ability to take on opponents for the team’s benefit. I feel we earned a just reward for an excellent first-half performance. Napoli clearly fought back, but we showed a strong reaction after a difficult period.”
Both Rowe and Bernardeschi found the net today, though both have faced challenges with fitness and adapting to Serie A.
“We knew Bernardeschi would need time, and that English players often find it harder to adapt to Serie A. However, after four months, he’s really started to understand the team’s movements and work effectively with his teammates. He’s young and has demonstrated significant quality.”
“Bernardeschi’s statistics for his fitness levels are impressive, showcasing the quality he brings.”
Santiago Castro has been named in Argentina’s provisional 55-man squad for the World Cup.
“He’s still very young but has been a starter for the past two years and is improving his off-the-ball work for the team. He still has immense potential for growth. If he stays grounded and continues to put in this effort, he can become a great center-forward,” the coach commented.
Bologna currently sits in eighth place. While European qualification is out of reach, they can potentially avoid the first two rounds of the Coppa Italia next season.
“We weren’t quite as spectacular as last season, but there were some bright moments this year as well. It’s a shame about the last few months, but we have two more games and will aim to perform as well as we did tonight,” Italiano added.
The coach has been linked with a move away from Bologna, with several clubs reportedly interested, including Milan and Napoli. Reports suggest a meeting with the directors is scheduled for tomorrow.
“I’m not sure about a meeting tomorrow. There will be a discussion with the club about how the season went and future plans; we did this last year and will do it again,” Italiano replied.
“I’ve always said this is a top club with a great atmosphere. We were disappointed by the recent jeers, but these things happen. We’ll discuss it and decide on our next steps.”