Artem Dovbyk, on loan from Bologna from Roma with the right to buy for 15 million euros, is under observation by coach Raffaele Palladino. In a training match, Palladino asked the Ukrainian center forward to increase the intensity, underlining that only in this way will he have the chance to earn a place on the pitch. The implicit message is clear: Dovbyk must demonstrate his value immediately to avoid doubts about his staying in the team.
Dovbyk's performance has been limited so far. The striker spent 98 minutes in 8 games, without ever being a starter, and scored just one goal. His physical form was put to the test by a series of injuries last season, which forced him to give up his call-up to the Ukrainian national team. During the match against Inter, a muscle strain saw him come on only after the interruption for Piccoli's recovery. In the match against Cagliari, the coach preferred to deploy Odgaard as the first striker, leaving Dovbyk on the bench for the entire match.
Bologna has three center forwards in their squad, a situation that the club considers a luxury, especially in view of the winter transfer window. The club has not yet decided whether to renew the loan or allow an early return to Rome, with the possibility of a possible transfer elsewhere. The final choice will depend on Dovbyk's performances in the coming weeks.
The player, motivated to demonstrate his usefulness, is ready to give his all to gain the trust of the coach, his teammates and the fans. With time running out, the final verdict on his future at Bologna is imminent.