Bologna Star Praises Aston Villa as a ‘Top Class Club’

Jonathan Rowe has set his sights on knocking Aston Villa out of the Europa League. Bologna host Unai Emery’s side in the first leg of the quarter-finals this evening.

Rowe praised Aston Villa as a ‘top class club’ while stressing his team’s ambition. He said Bologna will give Villa a tough fight at the Renato Dall’Ara.

Player profile and European form

Rowe is a 22-year-old former England Under-21 international. He progressed through the Norwich City academy before moving abroad.

He has featured in ten European matches this season. Rowe has scored three goals and supplied two assists in the competition.

He has missed only two Europa League games so far. One absence was caused by injury.

Knowledge of the opposition

Rowe has faced Aston Villa previously during his time at Norwich. He praised Villa’s quality and their manager, Unai Emery.

He also knows Harvey Elliott well. The two played together for England’s Under-21s.

Expectations and local commentary

Rowe told the Corriere di Bologna that he wants to win and help the team advance. He acknowledged Villa’s strength but insisted Bologna can make life difficult.

Former Italy international Gaetano D’Agostino has given Bologna only a minimal chance of progressing. Rowe remains determined to engineer an upset.

Recent career moves

In summer 2024 Rowe was linked with Leeds United. He instead opted to move abroad and signed for Marseille briefly.

He then continued his career in Italy with Serie A side Bologna. The transfer has placed him in a prominent European role this season.

Aston Villa recent league finishes

Filmogaz.com will monitor the tie closely. Expect updates after the first leg concludes this evening.