Gian Piero Gasperini is prepared for a difficult challenge against Milan and seemed to confirm that Ruslan Malinovskyi is on the verge of a move away from Atalanta.

The Bergamo side had a difficult season last year, finishing 8th in the table after failing to maintain the momentum they’d built up over the last few campaigns. Their experience in the Champions League is quickly starting to become a memory and Gasperini is now overseeing a squad transition, ready to refresh the project.

Speaking in a press conference, Gasperini first discussed the difficulty of Atalanta’s clash against reigning champions Milan.

“We hope there’ll be a turnaround from last year, clearly starting that tomorrow would be nice given the strength of the opponent.

“It’s difficult, the schedule has proposed this, that’s fine. It’s good that we have this challenge right away, then we’ll know the strength of the team, it can be an opportunity for everyone.”

He provided an update on some of his injured players.

“Ederson, there’s a bit of caution, but next week he’ll okay. Demiral and Zappacosta have been training with us, Demiral is further ahead, Zappacosta needs a little more running in.”

The Italian coach commented on the arrival of talented full back Brandon Soppy from Udinese.

“He arrived yesterday, he’ll do his first training session today, you all know him. He represents an investment for the future.”

Gasperini discussed if he’s found the fix for Atalanta’s poor performances at home.

“I’ve been thinking about it all summer, still haven’t found the solution. Let’s see tomorrow.”

He touched on the importance of the support from the Atalanta fans.

“You have seen the enthusiasm around the team, it’s completely different from what you read especially locally around the team. 

“There is great enthusiasm and not a depressed and sad atmosphere that’s painted, it clashes with what is reality.”

The Italian coach commented on the Malinovskyi situation, seeming to confirm a probable departure.

‘I just can’t do it! He has been extraordinary with us, then over the years there has always been Ilicic, we never thought of finding player with those characteristics. 

“He has been great at adapting, he has done some very good things. But it’s right for Atalanta to look for a player who scores more than six goals. 

“He has adapted very well, but it’s right that in the market the club looks for players with characteristics more suitable for the game.”

Gasperini discussed what kind of season he expects for Atalanta.

“At least 10 games will be needed to see. Milan today are a model, they’ve been able to sign valuable youngsters, they’re a model on and off the pitch. They represent, for me, the real model to follow.”

The Atalanta coach commented on if tomorrow’s game will be an indication for what the club’s ambitions should be.

“It seems excessive to me to consider it a direct clash. It’s a clash of different profiles, but Atalanta’s goals do not depend on tomorrow’s match. We will certainly do everything to play our best game. It’s not a direct clash, Milan are playing for the Scudetto. 

“We won 2-0 in Genoa, tomorrow’s game will be a celebration, but this week the arguments have been focused on other things. We won with a moment that was rightly denounced, but the team deserved a win.”

Finally, Gasperini spoke about if Milan coach Stefano Pioli should be considered a favourite for the Panchina d’Oro award.

“It will definitely be more than deserved, he’s definitely the main favourite.”

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