Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks forward to the ‘great emotions’ of the Champions League in August but for now La Dea needs to focus on tomorrow’s ‘big game’ against Juventus in Serie A.
The Orobici are drawn against Paris Saint-Germain in the quarter-finals of the Champions League and coach Gasperini couldn’t avoid talking about the big challenge that awaits them against the Ligue 1 champions next month.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini looks forward to the ‘great emotions’ of the Champions League in August but for now La Dea needs to focus on tomorrow’s ‘big game’ against Juventus in Serie A.
The Orobici are drawn against Paris Saint-Germain in the quarter-finals of the Champions League and coach Gasperini couldn’t avoid talking about the big challenge that awaits them against the Ligue 1 champions next month.
“We have experienced this emotion. PSG are a great side and aim to win the Champions League,” he told Atalanta’s official website. “We have already tasted the atmosphere of the European competition, I’m sure it will be emotional.
“For now, we must focus on the championship. We will have time to think about the Champions League.”
Ligue 1 has been cancelled and therefore the two sides will be heading to the tie from two completely different situations.
“They have other types of problems, but they will definitely know how to present themselves in the best possible way.
“We don’t think there are any advantages, we will meet a club that’s focused on the competition. We expect a strong and prepared side.”
Gasperini wants to use the match against Juventus tomorrow to prepare for the big end to the season.
“We have a big game tomorrow, for us it will be fundamental in anticipation of the Champions League, also to understand our consistency and approach. Juventus are another candidate for the trophy.
“We will simulate the challenge we could face against PSG, they’re a team we will face with attention and concentration.
“We still hope there will be audience, earlier there was more hope, now a bit less. We hope so, but we know that our fans can push us through the TV too.”
La Dea have climbed the table after a string of positive results in Serie A could cut the gap to six points with a win against the league leaders on Saturday.
The Old Lady arrive from a shocking 4-2 defeat to Milan, as the Bianconeri squandered a 2-0 lead at San Siro.
“Juventus have the possibility and the desire to add another Scudetto, I think they still have a great advantage on Lazio.
“There are seven games remaining, it’s not a big number, but it’s clear that the points count for much more.
“We arrive from an exceptional run of results and performances, we must continue down this path, trying to prepare in the best way.
“It’s not easy to play every three days, but it’s the same for everyone. There are some struggles in terms of recovery. We must always guest the best formation.
“For us, it’s essential to take enough points to qualify for the Champions League next year.”
But Atalanta sit only two points behind Lazio in the League and could climb even further up the table.
“Our main objective remains to qualify for the Champions League, then if we improve our position, it’s even better.
“In our heads, the most important thing is the advantage over Milan, Napoli and Roma. There are still a handful of points missing, we will try to make it there as soon as possible.”