Explore Bologna’s tactical transformation under Thiago Motta and how their dynamic football has propelled them into Serie A’s top-four race in 2025.
Tactical Breakdown: How Bologna Became a Top-Four Contender
For years, Bologna FC 1909 hovered in the mid-table of Serie A, struggling to establish consistency. But the 2024–2025 season has marked a turning point. Under the guidance of Thiago Motta, Bologna has evolved into one of Italy’s most tactically disciplined and entertaining teams. Their rise into the top-four conversation is no accident—it’s the product of intelligent strategy, squad balance, and a new footballing philosophy.
Let’s break down how Mint33 Bologna became one of the most surprising contenders for Champions League qualification in the current Serie A season.
A New Era Under Thiago Motta
Appointed in 2022, Thiago Motta initially faced skepticism. His managerial experience was limited, and his tactical ideas were considered too abstract by traditionalists. But Motta, a former midfielder who played under tactical greats like José Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, brought a fresh perspective.
Motta’s approach at Bologna has been rooted in:
- Controlled possession: High pass completion rate with purpose-driven movement
- Flexible formations: Usually 4-2-3-1, but with dynamic roles
- Verticality: Quick transitions from defense to attack
- High pressing: Forcing errors and creating chances high up the pitch
Formation and Tactical Identity
Bologna’s base formation this season is a hybrid 4-2-3-1, which often morphs into a 3-2-5 in the attacking phase. Here’s how it works:
- Full-backs (especially Kristiansen and Posch) push high to support wide play
- Double pivot (Aebischer and Freuler) control tempo and block counters
- Creative midfielder (Ferguson) links lines and makes late runs into the box
- Wide forwards (Saelemaekers and Ndoye) stretch the field and cut inside
- Striker (Zirkzee) holds the ball, creates space, and finishes
What sets Bologna apart is the synchronized off-ball movement. Every player knows their positional responsibility—allowing the team to retain shape even under pressure.
Key Players Driving Bologna’s Success
1. Lewis Ferguson – The Engine
The Scottish international has been outstanding. He’s played as a No. 10 but often drops deep to help in build-up. His vision, stamina, and late surges into the box have led to crucial goals and assists.
2. Joshua Zirkzee – False Nine Perfection
The Dutch forward has become the focal point of Motta’s attack. Not only has he improved his goal tally, but his hold-up play and link-up with wingers have allowed Bologna to thrive in the final third.
3. Riccardo Calafiori – The Ball-Playing Defender
A revelation this season, Calafiori has been vital in building from the back. His ability to switch play and carry the ball forward has given Bologna a modern defensive edge.
4. Remo Freuler – Tactical Balance
A veteran midfielder with Champions League experience, Freuler adds calmness and precision. His intelligence in positioning allows others to play freely.
Statistical Insights
Here are some numbers that explain Bologna’s league performance:
- Possession Rate: Averaging 56%—a significant leap from 48% in 2022
- Pass Accuracy: 84%, placing them top-five in Serie A
- Goals Scored: 42 goals in 24 games, with balanced contributions across the front line
- Pressing Efficiency: 60% successful pressures in the final third
Motta’s side doesn’t dominate with individual brilliance alone—it’s a team effort, driven by a clear system and accountability.
What Makes Them Different from Serie A Rivals?
Unlike teams like Inter or Juventus that rely on superstar depth, Bologna has focused on collective synergy. Players like Orsolini and Ndoye may not be global names, but they fit Motta’s system perfectly.
Bologna also boasts a strong youth pipeline, with players such as Giovanni Fabbian and Tommaso Corazza emerging into the senior side.
Moreover, their fitness regime and injury prevention record are among the best in the league—a testament to their backroom planning.
Can Bologna Really Make the Top Four?
With around 14 games remaining, Bologna sit in 4th place, battling with Napoli, Roma, and Atalanta. Their consistency, however, is what gives them the edge.
They’ve taken points off bigger teams—draws against Inter and Milan, a win over Roma—and continue to dominate possession even in away fixtures. Their remaining schedule is favorable, with many mid-table opponents.
If Bologna can keep Zirkzee fit and maintain their tactical sharpness, a UEFA Champions League berth is more than a dream—it’s a real possibility.
Thiago Motta: Managerial Masterclass
Thiago Motta deserves immense credit. His coaching vision has taken a club with limited financial muscle and turned it into a top-four side through tactical discipline and belief. Bologna’s board has backed him patiently, and now they’re seeing the rewards.
Motta is also being linked to bigger jobs across Europe, but for now, Bologna remains his project—and it’s far from finished.
Conclusion: Bologna’s Rise is a Win for the League
Bologna’s emergence as a top-four contender in 2025 proves that tactical innovation, smart recruitment, and strong leadership can rival big-money teams. In a league known for its tactical heritage, Bologna represents a new wave—faster, bolder, and fearless.
As we head into the final stretch of the season, fans of football should keep a close eye on this brilliant Bologna side. Their story is more than a fairy tale—it’s a masterclass in modern football planning.
Support clubs like Bologna that bring fresh energy and tactical brilliance to the league. Back the game, celebrate the league, and stay passionate about football’s evolution.