By Alessandro Mossini
After being sidelined for five months due to a knee injury, Nicolò Cambiaghi is back with a vengeance. He remarks, “At the moment, I relish playing the game-changer for Bologna, stepping in and swinging the match in our favour. We believe we can replicate last year’s success.”
Upon scoring in the stunning 5-0 victory against Lazio, he’s been reliving the moment, “I’ve watched it countless times, especially as the video has gone viral. It was the cherry on top of a splendid match where we really enjoyed ourselves, and it wasn’t just about the three points; it’s one I’ll treasure for a long time.”
“Is enjoying yourselves your secret weapon?” he continues, “Absolutely! We have a great group and the support we receive drives us further. The atmosphere at Dall'Ara is electrifying, providing that extra push. It’s a new experience for me after previous stints with Reggiana, Pordenone, and Empoli. There’s a tangible affection from the fans that lifts you at home and away.”
With manager Italiano leading the charge for a Champions League spot, Cambiaghi is focused on Europe, stating, “Our aim is Europe, and ideally a top-four finish. We’re not intimidated by any particular team as the league is tightly contested, and it’s going to be a bumpy ride till the end. We currently play an attractive brand of football—gritty when needed and elegant when required.”
After feeling the sting of injury on the opening day, he recalls, “It was tough—initially, I didn’t think it was severe. A slip led to a partial tear. It was my first major injury, especially after just joining. Following the surgery, I was determined to reclaim what was taken from me. Returning to the pitch felt like a fresh beginning; now I’m fit, and the team is thriving, so I can contribute.”
The hardest part? “The first month was agonising—crutches, pain, sleeping troubles, it was a nightmare. The most frustrating was wanting to return while knowing I had to hold back. Your mind says you’re ready, but the body needs to catch up, especially for someone like me, who relies on sudden stops and turns.” He dedicates his comeback to his girlfriend Camilla, his family, and the Bologna fans, who made him feel cherished.
Ferguson has been an inspirational figure during his recovery. “I was in the stands when he made his return. It was so moving; having shared some rehab sessions, I saw how hard he’d worked. Witnessing his comeback instilled hope in me—if he could bounce back from a worse injury, why couldn’t I?”
As for his current role, Cambiaghi chuckles, “A bit, yes! I may not play the full 90 yet, but I enjoy coming on and shifting the game’s dynamics. Over time, I hope to clock more minutes, but in the modern game, with five substitutions, the players off the bench can change the course of a match. Scoring in Verona felt like a weight lifted—after all, it had been since April 2024. Under Italiano’s tactics, us wide players are often in the thick of it, and we must make our presence felt.”
Having severed ties after 15 years with Atalanta, he shares, “Both places foster a positive culture, with passionate support from the locals. I hope Bologna can enjoy long-term European success like Atalanta. When Sartori arrived, he conveyed how valued I was; it was a pivotal moment for me. Leaving Atalanta was tough after coming through their ranks, but now I’m genuinely excited about being part of Bologna’s project.”
Cambiaghi admits, “Everyone dreams of Champions League football; I missed out this year, but now we can fight for that spot. It fuels my ambition, as the experience gained in the Champions League is invaluable—it's draining but also rewarding.” He also dreams of representing the national team, recalling watching the Italy-France World Cup final in Berlin as a child with his father. “Receiving a call-up for U21s was unexpected; maybe the senior team will come knocking, too. I’m focused on my performance without fixating on it.”
As for life in Bologna, he shares, “I reside close to the city centre; during weekends off, I’ve grown fond of this lively place. I can stroll to Piazza Maggiore in ten minutes—it's turned into my little morning routine.”
With two months left in the season, he emphasizes, “We mustn’t become complacent. Thankfully, this squad is savvy enough to avoid that trap. It’s crucial we continue to play with our spirit and togetherness. With time, we’re becoming more confident in pulling off another great feat. The environment is positive, and we feel we can strive for anything, aiming with lightness and without regrets. We have our league matches and Coppa Italia to focus on.”
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