Bologna goalkeeper Federico Ravaglia reveals his teammates ‘all want Real Madrid’ in the draw for the new Champions League format.
The Rossoblu qualified by finishing fifth in Serie A last season, which was enough thanks to Italy’s status in the overall UEFA ranking to earn a bonus spot in the expanded competition.
This is a whole new version of the tournament, no longer with group phases, but a single large table.
“It’s wonderful, as last season we started out with the intention of improving, but it went so well that we achieved this childhood dream,” Ravaglia told Sky Sport Italia.
“Being actually from Bologna and getting that achievement here was something magical. Now we can’t wait.”
Bologna in the new Champions League
The draw for the Champions League league phase will be held on Thursday August 29, with matches running from September 17 to January 29.
Each team will play eight games – four at home and four away – against eight different opponents.
Because the draw is so incredibly complicated, it will be performed by computers and artificial intelligence to ensure there are no crossovers or confusion.
“The dream of everyone here is to face Real Madrid, including the fans, so that’s what we all want. I think that on August 29 we’ll be together to watch the draw, we’re happy to be in the Champions League and know that we deserved it,” added Ravaglia.
They have a new coach now, as Vincenzo Italiano took over from Thiago Motta at the Stadio Dall’Ara.
“We did change a few things, we’re more aggressive off the ball and have a higher defensive line. Even we goalkeepers have to help the defence.”