Legendary former Inter Milan midfielder Beppe Bergomi is expecting a tough match against Bologna, especially striker Joshua Zirkzee.

Bergomi spoke to Bologna-based newspaper Corriere della Bologna in an interview published in yesterday’s print edition, via FCInterNews.

On Saturday, Inter will travel to Emilia-Romagna to face Bologna.

The Nerazzurri head into the match in the best form possible. They have won thirteen matches from thirteen since the start of 2024.

But Bologna have proven to be a kind of bogey side for Inter in the past.

And there is every reason to think that the Rossoblu could do so again.

Inter and Bologna have already met twice this season.

At the San Siro in the reverse fixture in Serie A, Thiago Motta’s team came back from 2-0 down to bring a 2-2 draw back with them.

And then in the Coppa Italia, the Emilians were the team to knock out holders Inter in a round of sixteen tie that went to extra time.

Bergomi Full Of Praise For Bologna & Joshua Zirkzee

The Rossoblu have not just grabbed a couple results from Inter by coincidence. They have been enjoying a brilliant season.

Consistent results against the “smaller” teams as well as impressive performances against the likes of Juventus, AC Milan, Lazio, Roma, and Napoli have seen Bologna gain a foothold in the Serie A Champions League places.

Most recently, the Emilians beat direct rivals Atalanta.

As far as the match on Saturday at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara being relatively “risk-free” for Inter, Bergomi declared that “Anyone who says that is no Inter fan.”

“The win against Genoa was vital. This could allow them to make some rotations to the team at the Dall’Ara for the Champions League.”

“But at the same time, there is a risk if they take their foot off the pedal too early.”

Of the two teams, Bergomi said that “They both play beautiful football.”

“I think of it in terms of the connections and relationships between the players.”

“The way that Calafiori pushes into midfield, the Nerazzurri wingbacks pushing up higher than the strikers. The Intensity of both teams.”

And Bergomi also praised one Bologna player in particular: Dutch former Bayern Munich striker Joshua Zirkzee.

“I love him as a player,” the legendary former defender said.

“I like players like that. He makes the whole team play well.”

“He sees things on the pitch that we mere mortals don’t,” Bergomi added of Zirxkzee. “Ball management, anticipation, technique, vision.”

The 1982 World Cup winner predicted that Zirkzee is “Destined to be among the greats.”