Bologna are weighing a difficult decision after Emil Holm’s injury interrupted the international break and raised the prospect of a long absence for the Swedish right-back.
The decision
Holm has returned to Bologna after leaving Sweden’s training camp for specialist consultation in Finland. The defender was injured in the 63rd minute of Sweden’s 2-1 win over Romania, with the problem affecting his right hamstring.
The initial expectation is that surgery may be required. Should that be confirmed, the former Atalanta player, who won the Europa League with La Dea, could face between four and six months away when the period of inactivity and rehabilitation are considered.
Bologna are awaiting the final medical assessment before settling on their response, but the club have already begun considering experienced cover for the right side. Matteo Darmian is among the names under examination.
The 36-year-old brings a long Italian and European career, having developed at Milan before spells with Torino, Manchester United, Parma and Inter. His time in England lasted four years, while he then spent six seasons at Inter.
Darmian is not Bologna’s only possible option. Pol Lirola, who spent six months at Verona in 2026 and has also represented Sassuolo, Fiorentina and Frosinone, is being considered. Elseid Hysaj, recently involved with Albania’s national team, is another candidate.
The wider list also includes Marco Sampirisi, Mitchel Bakker, formerly of Atalanta, and Mattia De Sciglio. Bologna’s choice will depend on the outcome of Holm’s case, but the likelihood of a lengthy lay-off has pushed the club towards the market for an established solution.
