Atalanta Faces Personnel Challenges Ahead of Serie A Clash

Gian Piero Gasperini, the coach of Atalanta BC, has announced the squad roster ahead of their upcoming Serie A match. The team is currently dealing with several key absences, presenting significant challenges for their on-field strategy.

Sead Kolasinac, a defender for Atalanta, has been sidelined due to a bout of influenza, as reported by the club’s recent statement. His unexpected absence adds to the list of unavailable players including Scalvini, Scamacca, Toloi, Brescianini, and Kossounou, all of whom were already ruled out for various reasons.

In light of Kolasinac’s absence, Gasperini has been compelled to adjust his defensive lineup. Marten de Roon is anticipated to drop back into a defensive position, a strategy that will see him flanked by Hien and the recently returned Djimsiti. Such adjustments underscore the tactical flexibility required from Atalanta’s coaching staff.

The midfield setup is also experiencing changes, with Ederson likely to pair with Mario Pasalic. This shift is necessitated by the absence of Brescianini, and the inclusion of Bellanova and Zappacosta as preferred choices on the wings. Ruggeri’s return from injury provides an additional option, though it’s uncertain how he might be integrated.

In the attacking domain, Gasperini is expected to field a forward trio comprising Ademola Lookman, Retegui, and Charles De Ketelaere. However, reports from the Corriere di Bergamo suggest there may be a potential surprise in the line-up, with Samardzic possibly challenging Lookman’s position. This speculation arises from the fact that Lookman returned later than Samardzic from international duty, which might influence Gasperini’s decision.