Edy Reja told Atalanta they must be “ready for battle” against Udinese on Sunday afternoon.
It kicks off at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The Coach was drafted in last week for the sacked Stefano Colantuono, but his debut was a deeply disappointing 0-0 at bottom club Parma.
“It will be an important and exciting game, as setting foot in my new stadium is always a special feeling,” said Reja.
Edy Reja told Atalanta they must be “ready for battle” against Udinese on Sunday afternoon.
It kicks off at 14.00 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The Coach was drafted in last week for the sacked Stefano Colantuono, but his debut was a deeply disappointing 0-0 at bottom club Parma.
“It will be an important and exciting game, as setting foot in my new stadium is always a special feeling,” said Reja.
“I hope to make a good home debut, for the sake of the team. I know full well it will be difficult, as Udinese have excellent players.
“We must make sure not to leave ourselves open to the counter-attack or go behind, because in those situations Udinese can clam up and focus on the break.
“We didn’t play in the Atalanta style against Parma, but it was the first week following a change of Coach and that’s going to affect the side.
“We were slow and sluggish, perhaps fearful of making a mistake. I saw over the last few days the lads have been more relaxed in training. We have more belief in our capabilities and are ready for battle.”
Reja confirmed German Denis will start in attack tomorrow instead of Mauricio Pinilla, but tested out the 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 systems in training.
“Our priority has to be winning on home turf, as the Stadio Azzurri d’Italia has to become our fortress. Everyone has to struggle when coming to Bergamo, especially towards the end of the season.”