Bologna cruised to a 2-0 win over Hellas Verona to rise to fourth in the Serie A table, earning coach Thiago Motta widespread praise from the Italian newspapers.
The Rossoblu have been one of the revelations of the season under the Italian-Brazilian coach, only suffering four defeats across 26 matches this term, and their strong form has quickly started to attract the attention of clubs across Europe.
Thiago Motta is now looking increasingly likely to leave Bologna in the summer in order to make the jump to a top team, with options including Juventus, Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. His contract in Emilia-Romagna expires at the end of June.
La Gazzetta dello Sport had high praise for the 41-year-old coach, writing: “He puts on Fabbian, devastating match from the former Inter player.
“He asks for patience in defusing a Verona who plays dirty and look for ideas, it happens. Fifth victory in a row, team in hand and mentally strong, the Special Two, in his way.”
Corriere dello Sport highlighted how the Italian-Brazilian coach still managed to impress even if the performance wasn’t thrilling, commenting: “Less intensity than usual, but a solid, intelligent game from a mature team. It wasn’t easy. Once again, very good choices.”
Tuttosport discussed the strong show of appreciation given to Thiago Motta after Bologna’s win over Verona, saying: “Without the suspended Calafiori and Saelemaekers, Bologna struggled to penetrate the host’s defensive wall at the start, then broke the deadlock on a dead ball and took control.
“Helped by good luck. Standing ovation (with song ‘take us to Europe’) deserved at the end of the game.”
Thiago Motta ratings in the Italian newspapers
Gazzetta dello Sport: 8
Tuttosport: 7
Corriere dello Sport: 7.5
Corriere della Sera: 7