Bologna fan Gianni Morandi backs Thiago Motta to stay, discusses club's transfer aims
Bologna's most famous supporter, singer Gianni Morandi, has expressed his hope that manager Thiago Motta will remain at the club amid interest from elsewhere, while also discussing the team's recent transfer activity. The 81-year-old music icon, speaking from his home near Bologna, provided his thoughts on the club's season and their ambitions in an interview published by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Morandi, a lifelong rossoblu fan, stated his clear desire for Motta to continue his project at the Stadio Dall'Ara. "I know other teams want him, but I hope he stays at Bologna," Morandi said, acknowledging the speculation surrounding the highly-rated coach's future. The manager has been instrumental in Bologna's push for European qualification this season.
On the transfer front, Morandi highlighted the January signing of English winger Jack Rowe from Norwich City, describing him as "excellent." He also pointed to the return of Federico Bernardeschi on a free transfer as a key piece of business, noting the Italian's versatility could be crucial for the season's finale. Morandi suggested Bernardeschi's skill set would have been useful to former Fiorentina manager Gennaro Gattuso, who was recently dismissed.
The singer, who is preparing for a nationwide tour, remains deeply invested in the club's fortunes. He admitted he was too disappointed to even discuss Italy's failure to qualify for the 2024 European Championship, but is fully focused on Bologna's pursuit of a Europa League spot. He confirmed he will be supporting from afar during the upcoming match against Aston Villa due to tour commitments.
Morandi also revealed a personal victory in passing on his allegiance, confirming he successfully converted his son, Pietro, from being a closet Inter Milan fan to a Bologna supporter. He shared light-hearted anecdotes about his friendships within the squad, including good-natured teasing of forward Riccardo Orsolini about his recent goal drought alongside defender Lorenzo De Silvestri.
With the club sitting in a strong position in Serie A, the backing from such a prominent figure underscores the positive atmosphere surrounding Bologna. The club's strategy, combining a successful manager with targeted signings like Rowe and Bernardeschi, has earned approval from its most celebrated tifoso as they aim to secure a historic European berth.
