Thiago Motta warns Bologna do not have ‘another Lewis Ferguson’ and must take a different approach in the showdown for fourth place with Roma.
It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 17.30 UK time (16.30 GMT).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Milan–Inter on the LIVEBLOG.
This is a head-to-head for Champions League places, although thanks to the co-efficient, the top five now go into the tournament next season.
There are four points separating these teams going in, but the Giallorossi have a game in hand.
They are also fatigued by playing the Europa League quarter-final against Milan on Thursday, much of it when down to 10 men.
“When we talk at the end of the season at a high level, I don’t think we can take fatigue into account. Roma have a large squad with quality players that was built for these competitions,” Thiago Motta told DAZN.
“We must focus on ourselves and what we must do to face a Roma side that is doing very well.
Bologna have rather slowed down recently, coming off two consecutive 0-0 draws with Frosinone and Monza.
“Despite not scoring over the last two games, we created many opportunities and I hope that tonight we can finish off some of those chances.”
Thiago Motta cannot replace Ferguson
Ferguson had surgery last week for a torn anterior cruciate ligament that will rule him out for approximately six months, meaning he also missed the European Championships this summer.
“The first thing we must do is not try to copy him, because there isn’t another Ferguson. I am so sad for Lewis, he was doing so well and was meant to be with Scotland at EURO 2024.
“Whoever steps in for him will bring his own characteristics to the team.”
The starting XI is chosen, but the tactics are unclear, potentially a 4-3-3, a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-1-4-1.