Atalanta’s Gasperini Dismisses Market Speculation: ‘Too Many Defeats, We Need Continuity’

Atalanta’s Coach Gian Piero Gasperini has laid out his thoughts ahead of the club’s away game against Salernitana.

Gasperini expressed his concerns about Atalanta’s recent losses. “We performed in Rome, in Florence… these losses are getting too many, all matured at the end, the result could have taken another direction,” he said at the recent press briefing. He noted that while they certainly played a role in these outcomes, there were positive aspects to analyse in the games, even in Bologna. He urged his team to strive for improvement.

Speaking about Ademola Lookman and the impending Africa Cup of Nations, Gasperini expressed his worries. “I am worried, both for the numbers and for the quality of the matches played. Clearly, we are losing an important element in the attack, but we have a certain number of players to compensate,” he explained.

January’s transfer window was also a topic of discussion. Without mentioning the possible additions to the team, Gasperini underscored the significance of his available players’ performances. He hoped that Rafael Toloi would not suffer from the frequency of injuries as he had experienced in the first half, and made the same wish for José Luis Palomino. He voiced his confidence in the current defensive and midfield line-ups and called for continuity.

On Gianluca Scamacca, Gasperini confirmed he had a couple minor injuries. “Every time he stops, he then needs a little time to start again. The player is doing well, on paper the injury seemed to be more serious, now he is ready,” he said, dispelling any rumours of a more significant problem.

Unmoved by the club’s recent form, Gasperini was upbeat about Atalanta’s 2023 prospects. He believes the fifth place finish went unnoticed but for him, it was a great achievement, albeit less glamorous than others.

Finally, expressing his expectations ahead of the next matchup, Gasperini appeared optimistic. “I expect great spirit tomorrow, a spirit of retribution. Then there will be the Coppa Italia, the whole team cares a lot about it, we need to focus on good intentions for this week.”