Achieving the Incomplete: The Coppa Italia for Atalanta

Atalanta is aiming to seize the Coppa Italia trophy, which for many clubs is seen as an occasional competition: inconsequential if not won, a golden opportunity if reached the final stages. For Atalanta, particularly in recent years, it has represented a desire yet to be fully realised. Despite successes in other competitions, there remains a sense of something missing which is felt among players, staff, and the city of Bergamo.

After the crushing defeats in the finals against both Lazio and Juventus, where sentiment was “We don’t care about trophies, only the beautiful game”, for the club, and especially Head Coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, leaving the trophy cabinet to gather dust is beginning to feel restrictive. One can compare the situation to a suitor who bungles the moment of the kiss, a close analogy for the club’s recent endeavours.

Gasperini, whose term with the club is predicted not to last many more years, has recently hinted in several statements that the cup competitions have almost become a priority, including the Europa League. The desire to fulfil what Atalanta lacks, for the most significant coach Dea has ever had, would be a substantial blow not to secure any trophies in his tenure. Indeed, it’s hard to accept that the strongest Atalanta in history has exited without even a single cup victory.

There’s a strong will among squad players also, spearheaded by the seasoned “old guard” who are keen to inspire the new generation to believe in these challenging journeys. They are determined to give their all on the pitch against Milan, hoping to open doors that could prove interesting, and considering the presence of the Atalanta fans in the San Siro stands, they will fight for the trophy until the final minute to achieve eternal glory in Bergamo.