Gian Piero Gasperini sees Atalanta’s trip to Cagliari as “a European play-off,” even if they need to wait for Milan’s result too.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
The Orobici have practically secured seventh place, which would see them begin the Europa League preliminary rounds in July, but are still in with a chance of taking sixth.
Gian Piero Gasperini sees Atalanta’s trip to Cagliari as “a European play-off,” even if they need to wait for Milan’s result too.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT), click here for a match preview.
The Orobici have practically secured seventh place, which would see them begin the Europa League preliminary rounds in July, but are still in with a chance of taking sixth.
That is because they have a superior head-to-head record with Milan, so if they finish level on points, Atalanta will get the nod.
“The show of affection from the fans last week was extraordinary and I will never stop thanking them,” noted Gasperini in his Press conference.
“It’ll be a wonderful game tomorrow, because both we and Cagliari simply have to win and have no interest in any other result.
“Clearly, we also have to wait and see what Milan do with Fiorentina, but in doubt we must try to give our all. I consider this a test, as we are playing in a packed stadium with so much enthusiasm.
“Cagliari are fighting against relegation, but it feels like the same atmosphere we’d find in a European play-off. We need to approach it with the right mentality and character.
“The players deserve applause for all they’ve done this season. I was convinced last term wasn’t a fluke, as we faced big clubs with the right attitude. We want to end the season on a high and it’ll be a battle.”
Rafael Toloi and Andrea Masiello are both suspended, while Leonardo Spinazzola, Andrea Petagna and Andreas Cornelius are injured.
Atalanta squad for Cagliari: Berisha, Rossi, Gollini; Palomino, Gosens, Caldara, Castagne, Mancini, Hateboer, Del Prato, Bastoni; Cristante, Freuler, De Roon, Haas, Colpani; Gomez, Ilicic, Elia, Barrow