Gian Piero Gasperini explains why Atalanta have transformed their approach to be more solid after a surprise victory away to Roma. ‘We have many faces and can choose between versions.’
The amazing start to the season continues for La Dea, who are still unbeaten in Serie A and are top of the table after five victories and two stalemates.
A single shot on target proved enough at the Stadio Olimpico, as Giorgio Scalvini fired in from the edge of the area on an assist from fellow teenager Rasmus Hojlund.
“The lads have always worked hard, it was a difficult match against a strong Roma side, but we held our shape well and didn’t run many risks, especially in the second half.
“Roma are a tough team, so these three points boost our confidence and help us to improve.”
Gasperini made a double substitution at half-time, removing Scalvini and Hojlund.
“Scalvini was doing well, so was Rasmus, and it wasn’t easy for him against Smalling. Muriel was more of a reference point for the attack, but these are teenagers, they did really well and Scalvini scored a splendid goal.
“It was important that we moved Marten de Roon to the middle and that took away much of Roma’s initiative.”
They are also extraordinarily solid at the back, a vast difference from previous seasons, keeping four clean sheets and conceding only three goals in seven rounds.
“Even in the second half of last season, we weren’t as prolific as we were and throwing too many players forward to seek spaces was just not practical. At this moment, this is fine, but we’ll see how the season goes on. These are very balanced games and the details can make the difference.
“We used a lot more midfielders today in order to raise the quality level and keep possession. Let’s just say we have many faces and can choose between the different versions of Atalanta.
“Having five substitutions also allows for more variation. I was never a big fan, but seeing as it’s here, we may as well make the most of it.”
La Dea could potentially be clear at the top this evening, as Milan and Napoli go head-to-head at San Siro.
“Just being up there is very satisfying. We know that we won’t be there at the end, but it’s nice while it lasts and these lads deserve it, especially as we are missing a lot of players and lost several others over the summer.
“This squad is trying to renovate and lower the average age. We have started well, that’s a confidence booster, but there’s no rush to make proclamations on what we could achieve.”
Seems they have reinvented themselves this season. Be interesting to see if they and Udinese can continue their run of form.
Brilliant coach. Makes the most with whatever he has. They are not as entertaining so far as years past, but even more effective.