Sarri diplomatic on Atalanta v Hapoel Tel-Aviv, says ‘Ask me in private’ | OneFootball

Maurizio Sarri is preparing Atalanta for a tense Conference League play-off against Hapoel Tel-Aviv, while declining to air his personal views on facing an Israeli club. He stressed he represents the club, will treat the tie professionally and is focused on winning.

The first leg kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on Thursday at 19.30 UK time, 20.30 CEST. According to Football Italia, the occasion will carry extraordinary security, with around 1,000 visiting fans expected and extra entry checks, including a ban on Palestinian flags or banners. A protest in Bergamo is scheduled for 17.00 UK, 18.00 CEST.

Pressed on calls to exclude Israeli teams from UEFA competition, as Russian clubs are, Sarri kept his counsel. He said any personal thoughts would only be shared in private, reiterating his duty to approach every scheduled match with victory as the objective.

He described Hapoel Tel-Aviv as a tough opponent, highlighting their dangerous counter-attacks in the preliminary rounds and noting they may be better than many assume.

Sarri added that preliminary rounds have historically been tricky for Italian sides, so Atalanta adjusted their preparation and must stay mindful of their capabilities.

Charles De Ketelare and Honest Ahanor remain sidelined after pre-season injuries, though they hope to be ready for the Serie A opener this weekend against Sassuolo. Kamaldeen Sulemana faces a longer absence and is not expected back for a couple of months.

Source: Football Italia

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