Gian Piero Gasperini admits Atalanta need stronger performances to earn ‘credibility’ as Serie A leaders and prepares to face Fiorentina in ‘a fundamental match’ for European places.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).
La Dea went into the break for international duty as joint Serie A leaders along with Napoli, whereas the Viola have stuttered more than expected, particularly when it comes to scoring goals.
“We’re only at the start of the season, I did honestly think Fiorentina would have more points by now, but this is a fundamental match to reach Europe, as it usually is,” said Gasperini in his press conference.
Atalanta have been a revelation, not only in terms of results, but also their tactical approach that has focused more on defending than the usual Gasp all-attack system.
“The teams that win are the ones that don’t concede goals and score more than the opposition. If you don’t concede, then you are invincible, but if you want to win games, you have to know how to attack.
“We’ll have a better idea of the situation when the season reaches the midway point, but seven games already give us a good picture. This is what we’ve built our results on and I don’t mind it.
“We still need to improve on a technical level, so misplace fewer passes, develop a different type of attacking play. It is not a coincidence that although we are top right now, Napoli and Udinese are given more credit. We need to earn that credibility with better performances.”
They’ve also achieved good results despite missing several key players and there are reports Colombia international Duvan Zapata could be out of action until after the World Cup.
“Berat Djimsiti has started running again, we could have him back within 15-20 days. Zapata will have tests today to see if he can resume training or not.
“Davide Zappacosta had a thigh strain in a friendly against Pro Patria, but in a different spot to last time. We’ve got Giorgio Scalvini back, while Merih Demiral had his first training session yesterday since the Roma game.”