Hi Vincenzo, how much are you looking forward to having a game in Italy?

I can’t wait. We’ve already had the chance to play in Italy, in Turin. I’ve obviously taken a few trips through Italy myself as well as with the national side, and so I know just how beautiful the country can be. I hoped we would get drawn against an Italian side and now I’m just looking forward to breathing in some Italian air. 

What makes you want to play in Bologna?

I have close ties with Italy. My family and I spend four or five weeks there on holiday every year. My wife’s family and mine are really spread out across the country. Also, it’s just always special to go and play a match abroad. I’ve been here quite a long time and I’m familiar with pretty much every stadium in Germany, whereas I’m not yet familiar with as many grounds in other countries. That’s what European competitions offer you though – the chance to visit different stadiums and play in places that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to. It’s really exciting. There are a few things that make Bologna just that extra bit special, which is why I’m particularly looking forward to playing there.

What is it about visiting a new stadium that you enjoy so much?

It’s good to always see new things and get familiar with different stadiums. Bologna’s stadium is steeped in history and is truly unique with its old tower. Away trips, evening games and different stadiums in the Europa League always make for a special occasion. There’s always a different atmosphere and the press conferences before the matches, unlike the Bundesliga, involve the players. I’m looking forward to our trip.

Do you have any special ties to Bologna?

My aunt and uncle live there, however the city will be a new one for me, which is different to the Europa League game in Turin. My family and friends are all Juventus fans, which obviously makes my connection to the city and the club that bit stronger. I’m looking forward to seeing something new though.

Have you got any tips for the fans in Bologna?

Unfortunately not, as I really don’t know the city that well. But I am pretty sure that wherever the fans go to get a pizza, it’ll taste fantastic. 

How well do you know Bologna FC?

They were absolutely fantastic last year. I watched a couple of their games, but I don’t really keep up with Serie A as a whole. They’ve got a great side with some internationally capped players who will be well prepared to take us on at home. They aren’t going to make things easy for us in their ground.

How are you looking at Thursday’s game?

We’re looking forward to it and we’re on a good run at the moment, but we know it’s not going to be easy against Bologna. The club have some well-known players. We want to take our momentum from the last three games into our next two and really give it our all before the international break.