Bologna confirmed the parting on Thursday. Their official statement acknowledged that Italiano had informed the club he believed his time at the Rossoblu had run its course and that both parties had agreed to terminate his contract — which had been due to run until 2027 — without dispute.
"Bologna FC 1909 announces that a mutual agreement has been reached with Vincenzo Italiano to terminate his contract," the statement read. "Italiano informed the club that he believes his time at Bologna has come to an end after two seasons marked by excellent results. The club would like to thank Vincenzo for the passion and dedication with which he carried out his work."
Italiano, 48, arrived from Fiorentina in the summer of 2024 and won the Coppa Italia in his first season — the club's first domestic Cup triumph since 1974. His second season produced a sixth-place Serie A finish and Europa League qualification, consolidating what has been a significant period of upward movement for a club that had no recent tradition of competing in the top half of the Italian top flight.
He is now expected to sign a three-year deal with Napoli, where he will replace Antonio Conte. Ciro Venerato of CalcioNapoli24 reported that terms between Italiano and Napoli are effectively agreed, with a formal announcement expected before the weekend. The role is a significant step up from anything he has previously managed — Napoli are Italy's third-largest club by fanbase and a Champions League regular.
Max Allegri had been one of the alternatives under consideration, but his association with AC Milan's collapsed season and the broader upheaval that followed has weakened his candidacy. Maurizio Sarri had also been discussed but will instead take over at Atalanta.
Italiano inherits a squad still highly regarded across Europe. His first challenge will be the Champions League, where Napoli will face a group stage that includes at least one elite European opponent.