Dovbyk on his friendship with Edin Dzeko: “It’s all thanks to Mancini.” | OneFootball

Artem Dovbyk revealed an unexpected behind-the-scenes story about his friendship with Edin Dzeko.

After the victory against Verona, the Ukrainian striker explained how his connection with the Bosnian began, a connection destined to turn into a sporting rivalry in the next league match in Florence.

“It was very simple,” Dovbyk explained. “I was in the car with Gianluca Mancini, who told me I looked like Dzeko when he first arrived at Roma. He called him, we spoke for the first time, and that’s how it all started.”

Since then, the two have been in touch frequently, supporting each other through the most difficult moments.

According to Corriere dello Sport, their friendship has also strengthened off the pitch: a dinner in Ostia, at one of Dzeko’s regular restaurants during his time at Roma, was immortalized in a photo later shared by Dovbyk on social media.

Beyond their passion for football, the two forwards share life at Casal Palocco and the challenges they faced in their first year with the Giallorossi.

While Dzeko scored 10 goals on his debut before becoming the third-highest scorer in Roma history, Dovbyk’s first season has already brought 17 goals. For this very reason, the Ukrainian carefully listens to the former Bosnian striker’s advice: “We talk often; he supports me and I support him.”