Bologna FC have officially announced the signing of Davide Calabria on loan from AC Milan until June 30, 2025. This marks the 28-year-old right-back’s first venture away from the Rossoneri after an impressive 11 seasons with the first team.
🔴 Bologna’s Official Statement:
“Bologna FC 1909 announces the acquisition of Davide Calabria from AC Milan on a loan deal until June 30, 2025.”
⚽ Davide Calabria: A Rossoneri Legend Begins a New Chapter
Born in 1996, Calabria has been a key figure in Milan’s defense for over a decade, known for his:
- Exceptional dynamism
- Tactical intelligence
- Speed and stamina
- Versatile defensive skills
🚀 Early Career at AC Milan:
- Youth Development: Calabria’s journey began in Milan’s youth academy, where he quickly rose through the ranks due to his standout performances.
- First-Team Debut: He was promoted to the senior side in 2015 by coaches Filippo Inzaghi and later Sinisa Mihajlovic, making his Serie A debut at just 18 years old.
🔑 Establishing Himself as a Key Player:
Over time, Calabria became a cornerstone of Milan’s defense, averaging 30 to 40 matches per season. His consistency and reliability saw him preferred over players like Ignazio Abate and Andrea Conti.
- Leadership: Calabria eventually earned the captain’s armband, showcasing leadership both on and off the pitch.
- Tactical Role: Known for his ability to read the game, disrupt opposition attacks, and deliver precise long passes.
🏆 Career Highlights with AC Milan
- Serie A (Scudetto) Winner – 2021/22:
- Played a vital role in Milan’s first Scudetto win in over a decade.
- Made 26 appearances, contributing 2 goals during the title-winning campaign.
- Champions League & Europa League Appearances:
- Represented Milan at the highest European level, gaining invaluable international experience.
- Supercoppa Italiana Winner – 2024/25:
- Featured prominently in Milan’s recent Supercoppa Italiana victory, adding another trophy to his decorated career.
- International Recognition:
- Earned 7 caps for the Italy national team, having also made 19 appearances for the U21s.
- Trained under legendary coach Paolo Maldini during his time with the Azzurri.
🔢 2024/25 Season (Before Loan Move):
- Serie A: 7 appearances
- Coppa Italia: 1 goal vs. Sassuolo
- Champions League: 5 appearances
- Supercoppa Italiana: Key role in Milan’s triumph
Despite his continued contributions, limited opportunities under new managers Paulo Fonseca and Sérgio Conceição led to the decision to seek more consistent playing time at Bologna.
🔄 Why Bologna?
Bologna’s manager sees Calabria as a perfect fit for their tactical system, offering:
- Experience: Over 250 career appearances with Milan, bringing leadership to Bologna’s defense.
- Versatility: Capable of playing as a right-back, wing-back, or even in midfield if needed.
- Winning Mentality: A proven champion with top-level experience in Serie A and Europe.
🗣️ What’s Next for Calabria?
Calabria is expected to make an immediate impact at Bologna, with fans eager to see how his leadership and defensive prowess will boost the team’s ambitions in Serie A.
- Debut Watch: He could feature in Bologna’s upcoming league fixture.
- Long-Term Future: While it’s currently a loan deal, Bologna holds an option to make the transfer permanent depending on his performances.
💬 Final Thoughts
Davide Calabria’s move to Bologna represents:
✅ A fresh challenge for the veteran defender
✅ An opportunity for regular playing time
✅ A chance to prove himself in a new environment
While Milan fans will miss their captain, they’ll undoubtedly be cheering him on as he embarks on this new chapter. Bologna gains not just a player, but a leader with championship pedigree.
