Bologna returned to Serie A after just one year away but the early weeks of this season seemed to suggest a similarly quick drop back to Serie B. Delio Rossi had only just about got the Rossoblu promoted via the play-offs but he wouldn't be able to get away with it at this level. That was confirmed when he lead the side to eights defeats from their opening ten league matches and immediate relegation was staring the club in the face. Action was needed and taken with former national team coach, Roberto Donadoni, brought in to replace Rossi. Donadoni had enjoyed a topsy-turvy managerial career and was last seen in charge at Parma in a torrid season where they were relegated. It was questioned whether he still had the desire to succeed after that experience but the coach proved he still has plenty to offer. Donadoni oversaw a massive turnaround in the Rossblu's fortunes as they won five of his first eight games in charge including famous victories over Napoli and Milan. All in all, Bologna lost just four of his first 18 games and they were suddenly in the top half of the table, perhaps even threatening a late push for Europe. Unfortunately, they lost top scorer Mattia Destro to injury in March and that coincided with a huge end of season slump in form. Indeed, the players seemed to feel that the hard work had been done with relegation fears having been vanquished. It was a disappointing end to the campaign but there isn't a Bologna fan out there who wouldn't have taken a 14th place finish after the first ten games. Donadoni is a great motivator and is often able to foster a great team spirit so there were no outstanding individuals this season. The manager did get the best out of the likes of Destro and Emanuele Giaccherini who were both flagging in their careers. Perhaps one of the highlights of the season was being the only team not to lose to Juventus in their incredible 26 match unbeaten streak. Donadoni has certainly restored his pride and reputation. Can he now take the club further with his first summer transfer window to come?
