Papu Gomez has issued a word of advice to his former side Atalanta as they embark on their 2023-24 Europa League campaign on Thursday evening, insisting that togetherness will help lead them to success in the competition.
Gomez, who left Atalanta after six-and-a-half years in January 2021, won the Europa in May, getting the better of Jose Mourinho and Roma on penalties, although the Argentine was an unused substitute in the final.
Now a free agent after terminating his contract one year early, Gomez spoke in-depth to Eco di Bergamo, where he discussed what is needed to win silverware in Europe.
“After our elimination from the Champions League, we are thinking: now we can beat anyone. And when we beat Manchester United, we felt it was our moment. When you join Sevilla, it’s inevitable to feel it. That cup is almost like a part of our DNA.
Then, discussing Atalanta, Gomez said that things are starting to look bright again under Gian Piero Gasperini and that his famous brand of attacking football is a massive benefit.
“The club has evolved and now seems to be returning to its attacking roots,” he said.
“Importantly, Atalanta have grown together as a team. Every moment with them has been special, even if there has always been a small regret for not having brought a trophy to Bergamo.”
Atalanta get their Europa League campaign underway with the visit of Polish outfit Rakow Czestochowa to the Gewiss Stadium on Thursday evening, kicking off at 20.00 BST.