Gian Piero Gasperini admits there is ‘some truth’ to suggestions Udinese are the ‘new Atalanta’ as two of the top three face off tomorrow afternoon.
It kicks off on Sunday at 14.00 UK time (13.00 GMT).
These two sides have been revelations in Serie A this season, as La Dea are joint leaders with Napoli, while the Friulani are only one point behind in third place.
With their similar tactical approach and results despite a tiny budget, Udinese have been called the ‘new Atalanta’ this term.
“There certainly are some similarities, so I see some truth in that,” said Atalanta coach Gasperini in his press conference.
“Udinese are going through a very enthusiastic period, just as we are. We come to Udine highly motivated and winning tomorrow would be a big confidence-booster for us.
“We are up against a strong side, with both physicality and technique. They are only one point behind us, but are given more consideration in the media. They’ve earned it on the field, the way they beat sides like Inter and Roma.
“Atalanta are top of the table, so it’s difficult to improve on the results, but we need to improve the performances and our self-confidence.”
This is Andrea Sottil’s debut Serie A season as a coach, yet he has won six in a row, after fumbling a lead to lose the opener against Milan.
“The results speak for him, I like the way he transformed this team and gave them a complete change of mentality,” added Gasp.
Atalanta have changed too this season, as while they were famous for their all-attack approach, they now have the best defensive record in Serie A and Udinese are the most prolific.
“It is curious for everyone to see how it will go. These are statistics I never gave much attention to, as I prefer to see the game globally.”
Atalanta have a lot of injury problems, missing Juan Musso, Duvan Zapata, Rafael Toloi, Berat Djimsiti and Davide Zappacosta, with Jose Luis Palomino still suspended after failing a pre-season doping test.
He is so correct!!! All foreigners on the squad