Gian Piero Gasperini has ‘regrets’ that Atalanta were unable to beat Juventus, but insists they ‘emerge stronger’ thanks to a dominant performance, even if they still won’t target a top four finish.
La Dea pinned Juve back into their own half for long periods of the 0-0 draw, forcing several big saves out of Wojciech Szczesny, above all a Luis Muriel free kick that he fingertipped onto the underside of the crossbar.
“Of course there are regrets that we did not get three points, as it would’ve been a big step forward. Looking overall, we were playing against a strong Juventus side and played well,” said Gasperini in his press conference and to DAZN.
“Considering especially the second half, we would’ve deserved the victory, but we emerge stronger from this performance, with more confidence in ourselves and a squad that we can rely on, because those who came on gave a strong signal, including Muriel, Pasalic, Bakker, Holm, these are the responses I need from the substitutes.”
In a bid to break the Bianconeri down without injured Gianluca Scamacca and El Bilal Toure, Gasperini moved Charles De Ketelaere to a slightly wider right role rather than as a False 9.
“We were solid, created some very good scoring opportunities, had a different shape at times to show our tactical versatility. When we get Scamacca fit again, it can be an even more useful tactic against teams that are clammed up in defence.”
Atalanta seemed far sharper physically than Juventus in the second half, despite playing an extra game this season due to their Europa League commitments.
“We are in good shape and so far have seen no real fatigue. We’ve got Lisbon and Lazio coming up, but this performance will boost our psychological fitness too.
“It is going to be tough at Sporting Lisbon, as if you’re not on your toes, you might not see much of the ball, but I always say you either win or learn in European fixtures, you never really lose.”
This was seen as a showdown for the top four in Serie A, although Gasperini as always is very wary of discussing Atalanta in the Champions League.
“This is a very balanced season and I find it wrong to set objectives now. We are assimilating the changes, for now nothing allows us to have such prestigious targets.”