Gian Piero Gasperini sees Napoli as a test for Atalanta's Europa League campaign, but confirmed Leonardo Spinazzola “has not recovered” from his dispute.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I consider Napoli a very important test for us, because fighting it out with such strong sides could give us confidence going forward in Europe as well as Serie A,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Gian Piero Gasperini sees Napoli as a test for Atalanta's Europa League campaign, but confirmed Leonardo Spinazzola “has not recovered” from his dispute.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT), click here for a match preview.
“I consider Napoli a very important test for us, because fighting it out with such strong sides could give us confidence going forward in Europe as well as Serie A,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Last week they were beaten 1-0 by an Aleksandar Kolarov free kick, but caused Roma a lot of problems and hit the woodwork late on.
The Orobici were famously the only Serie A side to beat Napoli home and away last year.
“Napoli will, along with Juventus and Roma, be the big protagonists of this season, just as they were last term. It’ll be fundamental for us to approach this game in the right way.”
Atalanta were given a very tough Europa League draw, where they will take on Everton, Olympique Lyonnais and Apollon Limassol.
“We ended up in a great group and go into this adventure with enthusiasm, convinced we can have our say. I say that with no arrogance and full respect for everyone.
“After 26 years, Atalanta are back in Europe and want to be protagonists. After all, finishing fourth in Serie A wasn’t easy either, but we did it and will maintain the same spirit.”
Spinazzola is again not in the squad, even after Juventus publicly confirmed they would leave him in Bergamo on loan for another season.
“He has not yet shaken off the situation and won’t be able to play. He hasn’t recovered from what happened. I don’t know what the situation will be after the transfer window closes.
“Marten De Roon and Josip Ilicic are settling into the side. I asked the club for a couple of elements we are still missing, as perhaps we need something more in attack.”