Bologna vs Empoli Prediction & Betting Tips (31 August)

Bologna defied all predictions during the previous financial year by finishing 5th in Serie A. This completely unexpected performance allows the club to compete in the Champions League this season, which constitutes a resounding achievement. The task therefore promises to be difficult, especially since coach Thiago Motta, the true architect of the good results, has committed to Juventus this summer. The Rossoblu also disappointed during the first two days. After being held in check at home by Udinese 1-1, they were soundly beaten in the den of Naples last weekend 3-0. Present in the elite since 2021, Empoli is managed to maintain his position during the 3 previous exercises.

Last season was particularly trying, as evidenced by its 17th place in Serie A, 1 point ahead of the first relegated team. Defender Ardian Ismajli's teammates avoided a descent on the final day thanks to a success against Roma. Now under Roberto D'Aversa this season, they are off to a good start in the league. Indeed, Empoli held off Monza 0-0 before creating a surprise by winning at Roma last weekend 1-2. We must not forget the qualification obtained against Catanzaro Serie B just before starting the championship 4-1. 

For Bologna, we must highlight the withdrawals of playmaker Ferguson, striker who arrived this summer Cambiaghi and less important midfielder El Azzouzi. In sight during the Euro, the Swiss internationals Freuler, Aebischer and Ndoye still play a major role this season. Scorer on the first day, winger Orsolini is also present. Bologna was unable to retain the captains Calafiori (Arsenal) and Zirkzee (Manchester United), who were eagerly coveted following their good performances. Additionally, veteran Arnautovic (Inter) has left the club for good while defender Binks has flown to Coventry. However, several elements have arrived. This is the case of defenders Erlic (Sassuolo), Holm (Spezia) and Miranda (Betis), midfielders Freuler (Nottingham Forest), Byar (Reims) and Pobega (AC Milan) and offensive players Dallinga (Toulouse), Cambiaghi ( Atalanta), Dominguez (Gimnasia), Odgaard (AZ Alkmaar) and Iling-Junior (Aston Villa). Empoli remains without starting defender Ebuehi, important attacking midfielder Zurkowski and substitutes Perisan and Belardinelli, all injured.

The good news comes from the return of midfielder Grassi from suspension. It's Coach D'Aversa's turn to be suspended. With 1 goal and 1 assist, striker Colombo was the great architect of the victory against Roma last weekend. Piston Gyasi also scored. During the off-season, Empoli let defense captain Luperto (Cagliari) leave. In addition, attackers Niang (without contract), Caputo (without contract) and Destro (without contract) were left free at the end of their contract as was goalkeeper Berisha (without contract). Conversely, the leaders have set their sights on goalkeeper Brancolini (Lecce) and playmaker Anjorin (Chelsea) while Vasquez (AC Milan), Viti (Nice), Solbakken (Roma), Esposito (Inter) and Colombo (AC Milan) arrived on loan.