Gian Piero Gasperini concedes Atalanta “really do believe” in their Champions League hopes after beating Lazio. “We believe in our football and that gives us strength.”
The Orobici not only consolidated fourth place by fighting back from an early Marco Parolo goal to conquer the Stadio Olimpico 3-1, but also closed the gap to just one point from Inter in third.
Gian Piero Gasperini concedes Atalanta “really do believe” in their Champions League hopes after beating Lazio. “We believe in our football and that gives us strength.”
The Orobici not only consolidated fourth place by fighting back from an early Marco Parolo goal to conquer the Stadio Olimpico 3-1, but also closed the gap to just one point from Inter in third.
“We’ve achieved something extraordinary today. If we believed before, we really do now,” Gasp told Sky Sport Italia.
“All the victories were important, but coming back from an early goal on Lazio’s turf to win, that means more. Coming back from behind so many times this season is no fluke, we’ve created the circumstances to do that again and again.
“I realise from watching them that we have this belief in our football and we cling to it, so if we go behind or are in a difficult situation, we can rely on that. It gives us strength, we continue following our path, our principles of football and it makes us feel that we have something to work with.
“My main aim is to ensure the players enjoy themselves both in training and during a match. That is fundamental in football. We have our training methods and I don’t know if we do anything that differently. I don’t think I drive them into the ground…”
Gasperini was asked if there was a moment he realised Atalanta could genuinely qualify for the Champions League.
“I haven’t said it yet! We started believing as time wore on, but our objective was always the Europa League. Belief grew after our home draw with Empoli, followed by the win away to Napoli.
“It’s not done yet, as there are Milan and Roma who are right up there. We’ve perhaps pushed Lazio behind now, but it’s still wide open.”
Atalanta are also in the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio on May 15, so would he prefer that trophy or fourth place?
“I can’t choose and won’t choose. Trophies aren’t just pieces of silverware, but also the knowledge you’ve achieved certain results over time.”
Gasperini was finally asked if his future on the Atalanta bench depended on securing a top four finish?
“I can assure you, we’ve never talked about the future. We’re so focused on this season and play every three days, we are taking it one game at a time. There’s no time to think about anything else!”