Verdi: “I want to continue along my path with Bologna”

Simone Verdi was today speaking to Sky Sport 24 about his future: “I want to make clear that this wasn’t just a no to Napoli. I had no intention of leaving Bologna in January regardless of who made requests. I made a commitment to the club in June and I now want to continue my current development. Obviously, I am flattered by their interest in me as they’re a great team. It is only right to assess all aspects of an important offer like this. I thought about it a lot. I spoke with the club, my agent, my family and my girlfriend. Even with Donadoni and Sarri, they both told me that I should think long and hard before then making a decision that would make me most happy. And now I’ve done so. I’ve listened to all different bits of advice, but in the end, the decision is mine, made with serenity and a smile on my face. I made a decision in June and I’m sticking to it. The club have been very close to me, giving me the freedom to make my own decision. I am pleased because they know that I give a lot to this team. I do not feel like my ship has sailed. I must still give more going forward as the Bologna fans still expect more from me. It will be increasingly difficult, but if I’ve done well so far, I now want to do even better. I will pick up more responsibility, even for my teammates. I am ready and for this reason, I will try to work more than before. I will always be grateful to this club for having believed in me and for having given me an opportunity to grow.”