Vincenzo Italiano has announced his departure from Bologna on amicable terms, assuring supporters that the club is in capable hands. As he left, Italiano conveyed a final message: “We will always be friends. Opponents, perhaps, but never enemies.”
Bologna officially confirmed on Thursday that they have parted ways with head coach Vincenzo Italiano by mutual agreement after two years at the helm. Italiano was appointed to succeed Thiago Motta ahead of Bologna’s 2024-25 Champions League season. During his first season, he led the team to win the Coppa Italia, securing a spot in the 2025-26 Europa League. However, this season, Bologna narrowly missed out on European qualification by three points.
Italiano was captured on camera leaving Bologna’s headquarters on Thursday, where he took a moment to share a parting message with the fans.
“Sempre Forza Bologna,” Italiano stated. “Two spectacular years, thank you to everyone. We parted on good terms, we will always be friends, never enemies. Opponents, perhaps, but never enemies. It has been amazing, I want to say goodbye to everyone.”
“From the first day, it’s been two amazing years. It’s truly a fantastic family, and we parted on really good terms. Now, both Bologna and I need to continue building on the successes we’ve achieved.”
When asked by reporters if he had one final message for the Bologna faithful, the departing head coach said: “You are in good hands, the club will truly thrive. We spoke calmly today, as we always have. And I repeat: Forza Bologna and my best regards to everyone.”
Despite a somewhat disappointing league performance this season, Italiano remains a sought-after figure in Serie A. He is reportedly among the names being considered to replace Antonio Conte as the head coach of Napoli.
