Much more than a veteran: Atalanta captain Marten de Roon continues to be vital in Bergamo | OneFootball

From upsets and glory in the Europa League to the drama of recent qualification to the Champions League Round of 16, Marten de Roon continues to be a constant at Atalanta.

He has accompanied the club’s evolution from its rise in Serie A to its European breakthrough, displaying immense stamina, tactical awareness, and tenacity in the centre of the park.

Furthermore, the vastly experienced 35-year-old captain has consistently gone above and beyond to become an important locker room leader, as well as a reference point for new generations hoping to understand Atalanta’s footballing philosophy.

This most recent infamous European night comes as one of many highlights in De Roon and La Dea’s storied partnership. The tireless midfielder is not only set to break the club’s all-time appearance record (he is six off, with 429), he is also the player with the most Champions League appearances in the club’s history (41) and in UEFA competitions (66).

His part in the Borussia Dortmund turnaround is particularly poignant, too, given that he remains the club’s sole survivor of 2018’s Europa League elimination against the same foe.

In the second leg against Dortmund, of which many doubted the Orobici would overcome the two-goal deficit, his stat sheet reads as follows:

● 1 assist● 1 big chance created● 74% pass accuracy● 48 touches● 5 defensive contributions (2nd in the match) ● 4 ball recoveries

He’s seen the highs and the lows. He embodies not only what Atalanta is, but also understands what Bergamo is as a place, with both of his daughters born and raised in the Lombardy city.

De Roon’s star seems far from fading as Atalanta hope to defy slim odds in their favour against six-time tournament winners Bayern Munich. No matter the outcome, it’ll be exciting to watch the northern Italian side try to reach the second Champions League quarter-final in their club’s history.

GIFN | Max Bradfield