Vardy sidelined as Cremonese host Bologna in relegation scrap

Vardy’s absence looms large for Cremonese

Cremonese’s brief resurgence under Marco Giampaolo hits a snag before Sunday’s crucial fixture, as veteran striker Jamie Vardy is sidelined with a muscular strain. The 2-0 away win at Parma before the international break gave the Grigiorossi a sliver of breathing room, leaving them just above the relegation zone on goal difference. But without Vardy’s predatory instincts, the burden shifts to Milan Djuric, who replaces Antonio Sanabria in the only change to the starting XI.

Giampaolo’s return has brought structure and defensive discipline, but the attack remains fragile. Djuric offers aerial presence and hold-up play, but lacks Vardy’s explosive movement. The 4-4-2 formation sees Audero guarding the goal behind a back four of Terracciano, Bianchetti, Luperto, and Pezzella. The midfield quartet of Zerbin, Grassi, Maleh, and Vandeputte must work tirelessly to support the front two.

"We adapt. Vardy’s experience is missed, but Djuric brings different qualities — we’ll play to his strengths," said Giampaolo.

Bologna recalibrate after Europa League high

Bologna arrive in Cremona on mixed form. A 2-0 home defeat to Lazio exposed defensive vulnerabilities, their second loss in three Serie A matches. Yet sandwiched between those setbacks was a proud Europa League triumph over Roma in the round of 16 — a reminder of the squad’s potential under Vincenzo Italiano. Sitting ninth with 42 points from 30 games, Bologna remain in contention for European qualification, but consistency in the league has faltered.

Italiano has made four changes to the side. Joao Mario and Jhon Lucumi return to the back line, replacing Zortea and Heggem. In midfield, Remo Freuler and Lewis Ferguson come in for Nikola Moro and Riccardo Orsolini, pushing the latter to the bench. The 4-3-3 setup features Ravaglia in goal, with Sohm, Freuler, and Ferguson forming a compact central trio.

Tactical battle in the heart of Lombardy

The clash pits Giampaolo’s survival-focused pragmatism against Italiano’s more expansive ambitions. Bologna’s front three of Bernardeschi, Castro, and Rowe will look to stretch Cremonese’s backline, while the hosts will rely on transitions and set-pieces. With Vardy absent, Cremonese lose a key outlet; Djuric must now be the target man.

The midfield battle could define the outcome. Can Freuler and Ferguson dominate possession and dictate tempo? Or will Grassi and Maleh disrupt the rhythm and launch quick counters? The pressure is palpable: one slip could send Cremonese spiraling toward Serie B, while a slip-up for Bologna could see European dreams fade. At the Stadio Giovanni Zini, every pass, tackle, and sprint carries weight.