Charles De Ketelaere admits Gian Piero Gasperini changed his view on football, and feels he has never been in such good shape.
The Belgium international joined Atalanta on loan with an option to buy from Milan last summer and has collected seven goals and five assists in 24 appearances across all competitions this term.
“I am proud of the team because we are in the race for our targets in Serie A, Europa League and Coppa Italia. We play well and I am serene. That’s what I need to work well, every day,” he told Gazzetta.
“It’s demanding to play for Atalanta because we have high targets. It’s entertaining, too, because we all have quality, not only in attack. Look at the 5-0 win over Frosinone with five different scorers. We all had fun.
CDK added that he has a “different” face when he plays and looks more serious than when he’s in the dressing room. “I don’t smile much, only when I celebrate, it’s about concentration,” he said.
He spent one season at Milan in 2022-23 but didn’t score a goal in 40 appearances with the Rossoneri. Did he ever lack self-confidence?
“I’d lie if I said no, but then it’s the work that leads me not to doubt myself. It helped me not to lose confidence in myself,” CDK replied.
Why did he join Atalanta?
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but it was hard to say no because everyone, from the coach to director D’Amico, has made me feel their trust, and I’ve always enjoyed watching Atalanta play. There were other options, but I never considered them. It was just Milan or Atalanta.”
How is he developing thanks to Gasperini?
“Thanks to his advice and tactical tips my view on football has evolved. He said I had to be a protagonist with goals and assists, but also with good pressing, playing well as a striker.”
Lastly, CDK admitted he’s “never” been in such good shape. “It has to do with the way we work here. It’s a natural growth as well. At 22, I’m stronger than when I was 20.”