Italiano Fumes: Transfer Turmoil Blamed for Lucumí’s Costly Error in Roma Defeat
Bologna’s Serie A opener against Roma ended in disappointment, as a costly mistake from Jhon Lucumí gifted the Giallorossi a 1-0 victory at the Stadio Olimpico. Manager Vincenzo Italiano did not shy away from addressing the incident, suggesting that the Colombian defender’s focus may have been unsettled by ongoing transfer rumors linking him with a move to Sunderland.
The decisive moment came midway through the first half. Lucumí stepped in to intercept a pass, seemingly halting Roma’s attacking threat. However, instead of clearing the danger, his misplaced touch played the ball directly into the path of Wesley França, who capitalized ruthlessly. The error not only decided the match but also shifted momentum away from Bologna just as they were beginning to find their rhythm.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia after the game, Italiano expressed both frustration and cautious optimism. “We struggled early on but eventually started moving the ball with more confidence and finding the right channels,” he explained. “Unfortunately, during our best spell, we conceded a goal we should have avoided. It’s difficult not to think that transfer speculation can influence a player. Keeping the market open while the season is already underway is sheer madness.”
Despite the result, Italiano saw encouraging signs from his team. Bologna managed to carve out several promising opportunities and showed flashes of the composure and creativity the coach has been trying to instill. He emphasized that if his squad can remain calm in decisive moments and polish their execution, they have the quality to compete effectively throughout the season.
For now, however, the focus lingers on Lucumí’s error and the uncertainty surrounding his future. With the transfer window still open, speculation about a potential move to England threatens to overshadow Bologna’s campaign unless clarity arrives soon.
