Gian Piero Gasperini admits ‘this is not the Atalanta I was expecting’ and the squad is still in flux while the transfer window remains open.
La Dea had qualified for the Champions League for three years running, but now find themselves not even in any European tournaments.
That naturally has a knock-on effect for their transfer strategy, despite the change of ownership pumping new funds into the club coffers.
This evening the squad was presented to the fans in Bergamo and Gasperini spoke to the media, showing he was not entirely pleased with the team at his disposal.
“It is not the Atalanta I was expecting,” said the coach. “The club has been working hard, but the sensation I get is that the transfer market is only now really moving.”
The fans chanted ‘we will win the Scudetto’ and Gasp joined in, but admitted it was just for show.
“It’s impossible to see what objectives are within our grasp until we have closed the transfer window. The plan is to strengthen, we have chased some important players, but it’s a difficult market for everyone.”
Atalanta have purchased Ederson from Salernitana, Ademola Lookman from RB Leipzig and Caleb Okoli returned from his loan spell at Cremonese.
They have however lost Jose Luis Palomino to suspension after he failed a doping test, although the defender pleaded his innocence and will lodge an appeal.
Gasperini assured he has not suggested any specific signings for five years, so leaves those matters up to the club hierarchy.