Inter President Beppe Marotta praises Atalanta and insists they can ‘no longer be considered outsiders in Italy or Europe,’ while the Nerazzurri need to show even more motivation than last year.
It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
The reigning Champions of Italy started their season with a 2-2 draw away to Genoa, but then swept Lecce aside to get back on track.
Lautaro Martinez was out injured for that match, returning to the starting XI here with Marcus Thuram.
“Atalanta are no longer to be considered outsiders, but a protagonist in all competitions, both in Italy and at European level,” Marotta told DAZN.
“I am happy to be facing a team like this, it’s an important test for us, even if it is still early days in the season. I was fortunate to have been a director at Atalanta, so I appreciated the quality and the way they interpret their history.
“Since the Percassi family took charge, they have reached the highest level thanks also to a very smart coach like Gian Piero Gasperini.
“Combining the coach, a squad and club has allowed Atalanta to become a reality of our football and that of Europe too.”
Marotta and Inter got business done early
The transfer deadline is tonight at 23.00 UK time (22.00 GMT), but Inter did most of their business very early with free agents Piotr Zielinski and Mehdi Taremi, plus Josep Martinez in goal from Genoa.
They did make one final signing today, completing the arrival of defender Tomas Palacios from Independiente Rivadavia for €6.5m plus bonuses.
Despite Suning losing control of the club to Oaktree, there has been practically no discernible change, with Marotta promoted from CEO to President.
“Winning is difficult, but repeating that victory is even tougher. Mentality counts for a lot and every match will be more difficult than it was last season, the opponents will have extra motivation and therefore we must too,” added Marotta.
“We are a solid group behind the scenes, I have excellent collaborators like Ausilio, Baccin and vice president Zanetti, along with Simone Inzaghi and his staff. All this can allow us to face the challenges of the new season.”