Atalanta, Palladino takes charge: "I want La Dea back in Europe" | OneFootball

The new Nerazzurri coach is ready for his debut against Napoli: intensity, grit, and the enhancement of Lookman are at the center of the project.

Atalanta, Palladino takes the helm: “I was waiting for the Goddess, I want to bring her back to Europe”

Raffaele Palladino is the new coach of Atalanta. Just days before the league debut against Napoli, the coach presented his project for the Bergamo club, highlighting enthusiasm and mutual trust with the club:

“I am very happy to be in a great club like Atalanta, I will do everything with my staff to take it to the top. I was surprised by the unity and support of the club, which is a big family.”

Palladino arrives after parting ways with Fiorentina and after a period of study and personal growth: “In these months of break, I deepened my work, received many calls, but I waited for Atalanta. It took me little to say yes, because we share the same goals.”

Rediscovering Atalanta's DNA

The coach aims to bring the team back to the club's typical values: intensity, sacrifice, and grit.

“We need to rediscover Atalanta's identity, made of sacrifice and determination. The squad has great technical and human values. Every day is a test, we must compete with everyone. The goal is to return to Europe and I believe this team can do more.”

On the tactical level, Palladino explains: “I am not an absolutist, I want to understand the characteristics of each player and give the team the right fit. The 3-4-2-1 is the most suitable, but there is room for improvement. I ask the team to fill the area more.”

Lookman at the center of the project

The coach is strongly focusing on Ademola Lookman, who after tensions with Juric has found serenity and willingness with the Goddess:

“Someone like Lookman can be fundamental. I will evaluate his use based on training, but he has presented himself very well. What I ask for is intensity and presence in the area.”

The Nigerian forward represents a key piece to give more incisiveness to the team, especially in view of the fight for a place in Europe.

Challenging debut and support from the club

Palladino's debut is scheduled away at Napoli. The coach wants to see an intense and determined team from the first match:

“I expect the guys to play with awareness and the desire to compete with everyone, even against the Italian Champions. We must have the mentality to compete with every opponent.”

CEO Luca Percassi has expressed full support for the new coach:

“Seeing him work every day, I can guarantee great attention and responsibility. He is the first to arrive and the last to leave. All of Atalanta is with him, the fans will show their affection and support. To him goes our enormous welcome.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.