Gian Piero Gasperini highlighted Jose Luis Palomino’s morality after his failed doping test and he suggested that ‘more was expected’ in the transfer market.
La Dea have not had the easiest of summers following a difficult 2021-22 campaign. Defender Palomino failed a doping test, putting him at risk of a ban, and the club have lost some first team regulars like Matteo Pessina and the soon-departing Freuler. Atalanta finished 8th last season and some fans are concerned about the lack of major improvements.
Speaking in a press conference, Gasperini first discussed his squad and their quality ahead of the upcoming 2022-23 season.
“The team is the same and it will be an unpredictable season, within three months they’ll play a good slice of the season. Sampdoria always manages to build a valuable team, it will not be easy.”
He commented on Palomino’s failed doping test and his reaction.
“We know what the morality of the player is, an involuntary situation, it seems clear to me. We lost a very important player who joined Demiral and Zappacosta, who are also absent.”
The Italian coach didn’t seem too concerned about the imminent departure of Freuler, who is joining Nottingham Forest.
“However, we have important alternatives, from Koopmeiners to Pasalic and De Roon. Then there is Scalvini who will be able to have more minutes.”
Gasperini also spoke about the media reports linking Ruslan Malinovskyi with a move to Nottingham Forest as well.
“As long as the transfer window is open, offers and rumours will constantly come and this can lead to sudden situations like Freuler’s. The important thing is to follow the input given by the club.”
He reacted to Atalanta’s summer transfer window.
“I didn’t expect to be like this at this point but there is no shortage of alternatives and we have our own precise identity.
“Certainly more was expected but maybe what could not be done so far will be done in the coming days.”
Finally, Gasperini spoke about Aleksej Miranchuk’s move to Torino.
“Now he is at Torino and I wish him well. They could sign him permanently, it is a good opportunity for him in a great squad.”