When Vincenzo Italiano took over at Bologna in June 2024, he stepped into a club riding the momentum of a Champions League qualification under Thiago Motta.

The expectations were high, but Italiano, known for his dynamic, possession-based football, embraced the challenge. He instilled a new system that focused on fluid movement and quick transitions, fostering a style that maximized his players’ strengths.

Under his guidance, Bologna displayed remarkable cohesion and resilience, often outperforming expectations against more established Serie A sides. Italiano’s ability to motivate and develop his players was evident throughout the season. By cultivating a culture of ambition and unity, he transformed Bologna into a formidable force, capable of challenging the traditional powerhouses of Italian football.

The crowning moment of Bologna’s season was in the 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico. The decisive moment arrived in the 53rd minute, as Dan Ndoye got a loose ball and steadied himself before firing it into the net, scoring the only goal of the match.

This triumph marked Bologna’s first Coppa Italia title since 1974, ending a 51-year trophy drought and solidifying Italiano’s status as a transformative figure in the club’s history. The victory also secured Bologna a place in next season’s Europa League, further testament to the team’s remarkable progress under his leadership.

For Italiano, the Coppa Italia win represented not only a significant achievement for the club but also a personal milestone. Having previously suffered defeats in three finals, once in the Coppa Italia with Fiorentina and twice in the UEFA Conference League, this victory was his first major trophy as a manager.

The triumph serves as validation of Italiano’s tactical acumen and his ability to inspire and lead a team to success. It underscores his growth as a manager and his potential to achieve even greater accomplishments in the future.