Fully capable of claiming the scalps from a few of Italy’s elite in recent years, Matthew Santangelo questions whether Siniša Mihajlović’s Bologna can cope without a few of its top players departing while inadequately being replaced…
Serie A can be a very tricky trail to navigate throughout a given campaign. If you are not careful, you can quickly find yourself in the cellar, scratching and clawing to stave off relegation come May. For Bologna, there should be concern with this potential reality, not because of the coach, but more so due to a disappointing summer window that has seen a slew of key performers sold.
Promising defender Arthur Theate emerged as a pillar in Siniša Mihajlović’s backline last season. A young, left-footed central defender with an elevated work-rate and sturdy possessor of the ball, the Belgian was sold to French outfit Rennes for a substantial sum. However, in its current form, there isn’t a player in the squad capable of filling his shoes.
The defence also saw another crucial exit with Aaron Hickey making the Premier League switch to Brentford. At 20, the Scottish left-back showed tremendous progression in quality last season, often found making strong runs up and down the flank and lending six goal contributions (five goals, one assist) over 36 appearance. Andrea Cambiaso should be able to fill that void to an extent on loan from Juventus, but that may hinge on how well he can integrate.
Then there is the midfield, which took a hit when Swedish international Mattias Svanberg sought the German route by joining Wolfsburg on a permanent deal.
Without question, Mihajlović’s attacking unit will have its work cut out to help neutralize the many deficiencies this current squad contains. Marko Arnautovic, Nicola Sansone, Riccardo Orsolini and Musa Barrow have goals and assists in them, but ultimately, a lot is being asked of Lukasz Skorupski to rescue a disjointed back-line.
Key man: Musa Barrow
The last three seasons have seen the Gambian attacker emerge as a very steady producer of goals and assists. Barrow’s output over this period is as follows: nine goals, four assists in 1,545 minutes (2019-20); eight goals, eight assists in 2,921 minutes (2020-21); and six goals and six assists in 2,134 minutes (2021-22). At 23, the former Atalanta youngster is refining his overall game while also showing end product in the final third. He is poised for his best season yet and one which could warrant a significant move come next summer.
Coach: Siniša Mihajlović
Last summer, the former Milan boss publicly expressed his discontent with the underwhelming market to reinforce the squad to aim for much more than mid-table obscurity. Barring a complete 180, it is unlikely Mihajlović will be pleased with the product they are set to put out on the pitch. Despite his ongoing battle with Leukaemia, and profound lack of additions, Miha’s ability to lead, inspire and bring the most out of his men will likely be what Bologna lean on towards another middle of the road season.
Watch out for: Mihajlović on the hot seat
The recurring theme amongst provincial sides in Italy is that the leash is awfully short when it comes to coaches and the sack. It doesn’t take much more than a slow start out of the gate for to be shown the door as it is easier to replace one individual than an entire squad. Mihajlovic has proven he can elevate players to another level with some rough around the edges coaching. Some will take to it well, others not so much. This current squad might be the thinnest he’s managed during his stay in Bologna, so do not be surprised if the axe comes before the winter break.
Get the full 2022-23 Serie A season preview here.