Atalanta faces a critical juncture in their season as they strive to secure a place in European competition amidst the challenges of the remaining matches. Following a disappointing defeat against Sassuolo in Reggio Emilia, the team, managed by Palladino, must now target at least 26-27 points from the last eleven matchdays. This task is daunting but not beyond reach, given their strong performance earlier in the season where they accumulated 23 points from nine matches before their recent loss.
Today, Atalanta will take on Udinese at the New Balance Arena at 18:00. Udinese, fresh off a convincing 3-0 victory against Fiorentina, represents a complex challenge for the Nerazzurri. The Friulians have struggled with inconsistent performances and currently sit with 35 points, effectively out of contention for European qualification. This lack of pressure might allow them to play more freely, which could work to their advantage against Atalanta.
In terms of squad news, Udinese is dealing with several key defensive injuries, missing players like Bertola, Solet, and Zanoli. Coach Runjaic may opt for a back four, possibly introducing the young Mladic. Up front, Atta has recovered and will be available from the bench, while Davis and Zaniolo—returning to Bergamo—are expected to lead the attack.
Atalanta, navigating through the fatigue of a busy schedule including a recent Coppa Italia semifinal, might rest some seasoned players like De Roon, Kolasinac, and Zappacosta. The team also continues to be without key players De Ketelaere, Ederson, and Raspadori, although Scalvini will make a return to the bench. Despite these setbacks, Palladino has robust options across all positions. Defensively, Kossounou and Ahanor are expected to partner with Hien, while Bellanova and Bernasconi take the flanks. In midfield, Musah, who has been in good scoring form recently, could pair alongside Pasalic, while Scamacca and Krstovic are likely candidates to lead the line.
Ahead of their Tuesday night Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, Atalanta plans to field their fittest players, reflecting the importance of both domestic and European competitions. The first leg against Udinese this season resulted in a narrow 1-0 defeat for Atalanta, marking a critical moment that led to managerial changes within the club.
The lineup for Atalanta is anticipated to be: Carnesecchi; Kossounou, Djimsiti, Ahanor; Bellanova, Musah, Pasalic, Bernasconi; Zalewski, Samardzic; Scamacca. On the other hand, Udinese is set to field: Okoye; Kabasele, Mladic, Kristensen; Ehizibue, Karlstrom, Ekkelekamp, Piotrowski, Zemura; Davis, Zaniolo.
As both teams approach this pivotal match, the stakes are high for Atalanta as they aim to turn around their fortunes in the hunt for another European campaign. A promising performance today could reignite their confidence and set the tone for the remainder of the season.