Bologna FC 1909 Squad 2024/25
Bologna FC 1909, one of Italy’s most historic football clubs, enters the 2024/25 season with a squad brimming with talent, ambition, and a mix of experienced veterans and promising young stars. Under the guidance of their astute manager, the team has undergone strategic recruitment to bolster their ranks across all positions. This season, Bologna aims to build on their recent successes and challenge for a higher finish in Serie A, potentially securing European qualification. The squad reflects a blend of homegrown talent, shrewd signings, and players entering their prime, all united by a shared vision of achieving greatness. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the 2024/25 squad, examining each player’s profile, contributions, and potential impact on the team’s campaign.
Goalkeepers
1. Lukas Skorupski
Nationality: Polish
Former Clubs: Arsenal (youth), Roma, Empoli (loan).
Transfer Fee: €9 million (2018)
Lukas Skorupski has been a cornerstone of Bologna’s defense since his arrival in 2018. Known for his reflexes and commanding presence in the box, the Polish international has consistently delivered match-winning performances. Standing at 6’3”, Skorupski excels in one-on-one situations and is a reliable shot-stopper. His distribution has improved significantly, making him a key component in Bologna’s build-up play. With over 200 appearances for the club, Skorupski remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper and a leader in the dressing room.
2. Francesco Bardi
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Inter Milan, Livorno, Frosinone (loan), Chievo Verona.
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Francesco Bardi serves as a dependable backup to Skorupski. The Italian goalkeeper brings experience and composure, having played in Serie A for over a decade. Bardi’s agility and quick reflexes make him a reliable option when called upon. While primarily a second-choice keeper, his professionalism and mentorship of younger players are invaluable to the squad.
3. Federico Ravaglia
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Bologna Youth Academy.
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy product)
A product of Bologna’s youth system, Federico Ravaglia is a promising young goalkeeper with immense potential. At just 23 years old, he has already shown glimpses of his talent during cup appearances. Ravaglia’s shot-stopping ability and confidence in handling high-pressure situations make him a future prospect for the club. This season, he will continue to develop under the guidance of Skorupski and Bardi.
Defenders
1. Takehiro Tomiyasu
Nationality: Japanese
Former Clubs: Sint-Truiden, Arsenal.
Transfer Fee: €15 million (2021)
Takehiro Tomiyasu returned to Bologna in 2023 after a stint with Arsenal, where he showcased his versatility and defensive prowess. The Japanese international is equally adept at playing center-back or right-back, offering tactical flexibility. Tomiyasu’s aerial ability, tackling precision, and composure on the ball make him a vital asset. His leadership qualities and work ethic have earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike.
2. Jhon Lucumí
Nationality: Colombian
Former Clubs: Genk.
Transfer Fee: €8 million (2021)
Jhon Lucumí has established himself as a mainstay in Bologna’s defense. The Colombian center-back combines physicality with technical skill, making him a formidable opponent for attackers. Lucumí’s ability to read the game and initiate attacks from the back has been instrumental in Bologna’s playing style. At 25, he is entering his prime and is expected to play a pivotal role this season.
3. Adama Soumaoro
Nationality: French
Former Clubs: Lille.
Transfer Fee: €5 million (2019)
Adama Soumaoro brings experience and stability to Bologna’s backline. The French defender is known for his strong tackling, positional awareness, and ability to organize the defense. Despite facing competition for a starting spot, Soumaoro’s leadership and professionalism make him a valuable squad member.
4. Lorenzo De Silvestri
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Lazio, Fiorentina, Torino.
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2019)
Lorenzo De Silvestri is a seasoned right-back with a wealth of Serie A experience. The Italian veteran is renowned for his stamina, overlapping runs, and defensive reliability. At 36, De Silvestri remains a key figure in the squad, providing mentorship to younger players and contributing with his consistent performances.
5. Charalampos Lykogiannis
Nationality: Greek
Former Clubs: Red Bull Salzburg, Saint-Étienne, Cagliari.
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Charalampos Lykogiannis is a dynamic left-back known for his attacking contributions. The Greek defender’s crossing ability and set-piece expertise add an extra dimension to Bologna’s play. Defensively, Lykogiannis is solid and disciplined, making him a reliable option on the flank.
6. Riccardo Calafiori
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Roma, Genoa (loan)
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2022)
A young and versatile defender, Riccardo Calafiori can play as a left-back or center-back. The Italian’s technical skills and tactical intelligence have earned him a regular spot in the squad. Calafiori’s potential is evident, and this season could be a breakout year for the 22-year-old.
Midfielders
1. Nicolás Domínguez
Nationality: Argentine
Former Clubs: Vélez Sarsfield.
Transfer Fee: €8.5 million (2019)
Nicolás Domínguez is the engine of Bologna’s midfield. The Argentine’s energy, passing range, and ability to break up play make him indispensable. Domínguez’s leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions. At 26, he is entering his peak years and remains a key figure in the team’s plans.
2. Lewis Ferguson
Nationality: Scottish
Former Clubs: Aberdeen.
Transfer Fee: €3 million (2022)
Lewis Ferguson has quickly become a fan favorite since joining from Aberdeen. The Scottish midfielder’s box-to-box style, goal-scoring ability, and tenacity have added a new dimension to Bologna’s midfield. Ferguson’s work rate and versatility make him a valuable asset in both defensive and attacking phases.
3. Jerdy Schouten
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Excelsior, ADO Den Haag.
Transfer Fee: €6 million (2021)
Jerdy Schouten is a technically gifted midfielder known for his composure and vision. The Dutchman’s ability to dictate the tempo and distribute the ball accurately has been crucial for Bologna. Schouten’s defensive contributions and positional awareness make him a well-rounded player.
4. Michel Aebischer
Nationality: Swiss
Former Clubs: Young Boys.
Transfer Fee: €4 million (2022)
Michel Aebischer is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in multiple roles. The Swiss international’s passing accuracy and tactical intelligence make him a reliable option in the center of the park. Aebischer’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively adds depth to the squad.
5. Nikola Moro
Nationality: Croatian
Former Clubs: Dinamo Zagreb, CSKA Moscow.
Transfer Fee: €7 million (2023)
Nikola Moro joined Bologna in 2023 and has quickly established himself as a key player. The Croatian midfielder’s technical skills, vision, and ability to control the game have been instrumental. Moro’s experience in European competitions adds valuable depth to the squad.
Forwards
1. Joshua Zirkzee
Nationality: Dutch
Former Clubs: Bayern Munich, Parma (loan), Anderlecht (loan).
Transfer Fee: €8.5 million (2022)
Joshua Zirkzee is Bologna’s talismanic striker, known for his technical ability and goal-scoring prowess. The Dutch forward’s creativity and link-up play make him a complete forward. Zirkzee’s performances have attracted interest from top clubs, but he remains committed to Bologna’s project.
2. Marko Arnautović
Nationality: Austrian
Former Clubs: Twente, Werder Bremen, Stoke City, West Ham United, Shanghai Port.
Transfer Fee: €3 million (2021)
Marko Arnautović brings experience and quality to Bologna’s attack. The Austrian forward’s physicality, finishing, and ability to hold up the ball make him a valuable asset. Despite his age, Arnautović continues to deliver crucial goals and assists.
3. Riccardo Orsolini
Nationality: Italian
Former Clubs: Juventus, Ascoli (loan).
Transfer Fee: €15 million (2019)
Riccardo Orsolini is a dynamic winger known for his pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. The Italian international has been a consistent performer for Bologna, contributing with both goals and assists. Orsolini’s flair and creativity make him a fan favorite.
4. Musa Barrow
Nationality: Gambian
Former Clubs: Atalanta.
Transfer Fee: €14 million (2022)
Musa Barrow is a versatile forward capable of playing as a winger or striker. The Gambian’s speed, dribbling, and finishing make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Barrow’s ability to create chances and score goals adds depth to Bologna’s attack.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Bologna FC 1909 squad is a well-balanced mix of youth and experience, with players capable of competing at the highest level. Under the guidance of their manager, the team is poised to make a significant impact in Serie A and beyond. With a strong defensive foundation, a dynamic midfield, and a potent attack, Bologna has the tools to achieve their ambitions. As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and a team that embodies the spirit and passion of this historic club.