Gian Piero Gasperini says his Atalanta players’ motivation is ‘strong’ to secure a second successive season of European football.
La Dea finished fourth in last year’s Serie A table, earning them a place in the Europa League group stage.
And having impressed in reaching the Round of 32 before narrow elimination by Borussia Dortmund, the Bergamo side are in the running for continental qualification once more.
Gian Piero Gasperini says his Atalanta players’ motivation is ‘strong’ to secure a second successive season of European football.
La Dea finished fourth in last year’s Serie A table, earning them a place in the Europa League group stage.
And having impressed in reaching the Round of 32 before narrow elimination by Borussia Dortmund, the Bergamo side are in the running for continental qualification once more.
“At the moment, we are in a position of advantage for the Europa League,” Gasperini, whose side will move up to sixth with victory over Torino today, told reporters.
“We hope that is still the case in a month’s time. There are 15 points to play for, everyone from Torino upwards is separated by very few points and we are all in contention.
“I know that if we get the points we should, we have a great chance.
“We have three matches at home and two away – a small advantage. We just need to focus on what we are doing.
“Torino are a good team, they showed it against Milan. At this moment, our motivation is very strong and we are recovering our energy quickly.”