Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini insists the game against Manchester United is not ‘decisive’ and explains the difference between the Red Devils, Liverpool and Manchester City.
Atalanta host United at the Gewiss Stadium tomorrow. La Dea are on even points with Villareal in the Champions League Group F.
It kicks off at 20.00 UK time on Tuesday.
Gasperini spoke at a press conference ahead of the European tie against the Red Devils.
“For us, it’s an important game, but only if we win,” Gasperini said
“We know we need six points from the next three games, so this match is important, but not decisive.”
Atalanta faced both Liverpool and Manchester United over the previous two Champions League campaigns.
They collected one point in two games against Pep Guardiola’s side and beat the Reds at Anfield.
“When we met Liverpool and City, they were at their peak,” said Gasperini.
“They were organized, solid and with a clear identity. To me, United looks like a team under construction. However, they have great potential, they haven’t been consistent, but they are still a very strong team.”
Merih Demiral has recovered from an injury, but Berat Djimsiti is still out of action and won’t be available against the Red Devils.
“Palomino and Demiral have no problems, Djimsiti is dealing with an arm injury, he is not moving it properly, so he can’t play,” Gasperini said.
“Toloi will return after the break and Matteo Pessina is close, I don’t know if he will recover in time for the game against Cagliari. We have the right motivation and commitment to face this season.
“Tomorrow, it will be a very different game from the reverse fixture in Manchester. We played with personality in front of 70,000 fans.”
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner against La Dea two weeks ago, and has already scored four goals against the Nerazzurri.
“He is an extraordinary footballer, but everybody knows him,” said Gasperini.
“He is doing so well at Manchester United and he gave a lot to Serie A. Personally, I am sorry to see him return to England because I always hope to face the best players in Italy.
“Solskjaer did a great job last year, even if United arrived second. Man United have great potential, but they are not always consistent. However, they will reach their targets also in the Premier League.”