By Marta Elena Casanova
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Once upon a time, in 2021. A night at Wembley, Jorginho’s missed penalty — but then Donnarumma’s save. Italy, against all odds, were crowned champions of Europe. Among the heroes of that fairytale: Ciro Immobile, Federico Bernardeschi, Lorenzo Insigne. They weren’t just players — they were symbols. Four years later, two of them are back. In a different Serie A, living different lives, but with the same desire to matter. This isn’t just a transfer story — it’s about identity, memory, and motivation.
Ciro Immobile starts again at Bologna: a European relaunchù
Immobile has chosen Bologna. After a spell at Besiktas — 19 goals in a season — he said yes to returning home. He signed a one-year deal (with an option) worth around €2 million plus bonuses. The move required a contract termination with the Turkish club, which had welcomed him after his Lazio farewell.
For Immobile, 35, it’s a challenge of pride and credibility. He’s no longer the dominant striker of his peak years, but in a team playing the Europa League and fresh off a Coppa Italia victory, he still has plenty to offer. The goal? To solidify his place above 200 Serie A goals — a milestone he’s already reached — and serve as a leader for a young and ambitious squad.
His return also sends a clear message to those who had written him off: he chose football over easy money. The national team is no longer a realistic goal, but it remains in his thoughts. And if Spalletti ever needs a veteran in a pinch…?
Bernardeschi returns in style: also at Bologna
The second high-profile return is Federico Bernardeschi. After two mixed seasons at Toronto FC, he terminated his contract and signed with Bologna until 2027. He, too, embraced the Rossoblù project — proof that the Emilian club has become a solid, attractive destination.
At 31, Bernardeschi is ready to prove himself again: he’ll be a versatile attacking option — between wing and midfield — in a system that values technical skill and football IQ. He’ll wear the number 10 shirt and have a key role. His salary is significantly lower than what he earned in MLS, but the hunger to return to meaningful football matters more than money.
Back in 2021, he was crucial in decisive moments: calm under pressure during penalties, team spirit, versatility. If he regains form and consistency, he could become a major asset for Bologna and — who knows — even a name to watch for the Azzurri.
Lorenzo Insigne: torn between return and waiting
More uncertain, but no less intriguing, is the situation of Lorenzo Insigne. He, too, left Toronto FC, but unlike the others, he hasn’t found a club yet. He’s been back in Italy for weeks, has said he feels physically fit and ready to play again. There have been exploratory contacts: Verona, Como, Monza, Fiorentina, and even Parma. But none turned into negotiations.
His clear desire is to reunite with Maurizio Sarri at Lazio, but the Roman club’s transfer activity is currently frozen. As a free agent, Insigne might have to wait until the January window to find a new team.
Why are they coming back? It’s not just nostalgia
Immobile, Bernardeschi and Insigne are returning for different reasons, but all tied by a common thread: the desire to matter again, to end their careers where it all began — in front of chanting fans, packed stadiums, and headlines. For some it’s tactical. For others, it’s about leadership. For Insigne, it might be one last dance.
These returns also say something about Serie A: a league that often fails to keep its best young talent but still manages to attract those who truly want to be players again. A league that rewards hunger, not just résumés.
And the national team? A thought that never fades
Spalletti is looking forward: Scamacca, Raspadori, Retegui. But the drawer of memories is always slightly open. The Wembley boys know: if the ball bounces their way again, the call might still come. It’s not nostalgia — it’s the desire to still be there. One more time.
By Marta Elena Casanova
