Bologna has always been a city renowned for its rich history, delicious food, and medieval charm.
However, when it comes to football, the city hasn’t had the same global recognition as some other Italian powerhouses.
That could all change this Wednesday night.
A Historic Opportunity for Bologna
The team from Emilia-Romagna, who once ruled Italian football in the 1930s, has been largely dormant in recent decades, with their last major trophy coming back in 1974.
But against all odds, Bologna has managed to qualify for the Champions League this season.
Now, they’re poised to make history once again.
This Wednesday, Bologna will face AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.
The stakes are high, as a victory would not only add a prestigious trophy to the club’s history but also give the city a celebration for the ages.
The fans, who flocked to Piazza Maggiore last year to toast Bologna’s qualification for Europe’s top competition, could be looking forward to an even bigger celebration.
Sam Beukema’s Contribution to Bologna’s Success
Dutch defender Sam Beukema has played a key role in Bologna’s resurgence, although he’s far too humble to take much credit.
“I’m really excited, of course,” Beukema says.
“We will give our all in the final to bring a trophy back to this club and the fans.”
For Beukema, who was part of last year’s celebrations when Bologna secured their place in the Champions League, winning a trophy would mean even more to the fans.
“If we can bring a real prize, a trophy, to this city, the fans will be even more proud of us. We want to bring it home to Bologna,” he adds.
On a lighter note, Beukema can’t help but rave about the food in Bologna.
“The food here is amazing. In Bologna, they really know how to cook! It’s a nice city with a rich history and really friendly people. A great place to live.”
Beukema’s Rising Star and Premier League Buzz
Recently, Beukema has been linked with several top European clubs.
Reports from Italy suggest that Premier League giants Liverpool are interested in the defender, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid also mentioned as potential suitors.
But for now, Beukema is fully focused on the task at hand: winning the Coppa Italia with Bologna.
He’s not getting distracted by the growing interest from other clubs, keeping his eyes firmly on his current team’s goals.
A Memorable Conversation with Arne Slot
One of the more interesting moments of Beukema’s career came when he was weighing a move between two clubs in the Netherlands: Feyenoord and AZ Alkmaar.
Before making his decision, Beukema visited Arne Slot, who was about to become Feyenoord’s new coach. The meeting left a lasting impression on him.
“I went round to his house. We had a really good conversation,” Beukema recalls.
“You could tell he was a really good coach, even though I never played for him.
“The way he spoke to me, the way he showed me clips of myself, I thought, ‘Wow, I never thought of that before.’
“He sees football in a different way.”
However, at the time, Feyenoord was in a period of uncertainty, so Beukema chose AZ Alkmaar.
Looking back, he has no regrets about the decision.
Football and FIFA: Beukema’s Dual Passions
When Beukema isn’t on the pitch, he still enjoys indulging in his other passion: FIFA.
At one point, he was ranked among the top 10 players in the world at the game.
“I still play FIFA with my Dutch friends on PlayStation when I have time,” he says with a smile.
This season has brought some incredible experiences for Beukema, such as playing at iconic stadiums like Anfield and Villa Park in the Champions League.
One highlight was meeting his idol, Virgil van Dijk. “He is one of the best defenders in the world,” Beukema says.
“I look up to him, and it was nice to have a chat with him at Anfield after the game.”
The Dream of Playing for the Netherlands
Though Beukema has yet to receive a call-up to the Netherlands national team, he remains hopeful that the future holds that opportunity.
“I started playing football at six years old, and it has always been my dream to become a footballer,” he reflects.
“Playing in Serie A and having my first Champions League season is a dream come true.”
Winning the Coppa Italia would undoubtedly boost his chances of making the national team.
A Special Group at Bologna
Beukema has nothing but praise for his teammates and the club.
“We have a really special group here at Bologna. It feels like home.
“It’s a warm club, and everyone is so involved—players, staff, even the people who cook for us.
“We are one team, and that’s our strength,” he explains.
Since joining Bologna, Beukema has seen the team’s growth, and while they’ve come a long way, he’s eager to keep the momentum going.
“It’s been an amazing journey, but we want to continue that. We want more.”
What’s Next for Beukema and Bologna?
As Bologna prepares for the Coppa Italia final, the future looks bright for both the club and Beukema.
Whether or not they secure the trophy, the team’s resurgence is a story worth watching.
For now, it’s all about giving their best in the final and hoping for the celebration that Bologna’s fans—and the team—dream of.