Atalanta is currently exploring alternatives for its coaching position as the club awaits a decisive meeting between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and the Percassi family, who own the club. The team must consider whether to continue down the tactical path established by Gasperini over the past nine years or to opt for a significant change with a coach who implements a different style of play. While the core team is expected to remain intact, adjustments will be made due to natural aging, injuries, and a couple of potential departures, such as Ademola Lookman or Ederson, which will be offset by significant incoming transfers.
A coach like Maurizio Sarri, known for his four-man defense, may not fit well with the current Atalanta squad. Thus, there is an inclination to continue with a coach who follows Gasperini’s strategy, albeit with some differences. Among the names being mentioned are Thiago Motta, who is looking for a comeback following his stint at Juventus, and Igor Tudor, his successor at Juventus, who will be occupied with the club while they participate in the Club World Cup for the next month and a half.
Another candidate is Raffaele Palladino, who played under Gasperini in youth teams at Juventus and later at Genoa. The 40-year-old coach is now available after surprising resignations from Fiorentina. Additionally, there’s the possibility of considering Domenico Tedesco, 40, who has significant international experience, having coached Spartak Moscow and most recently the Belgium national team. Notably, Tedesco had led RB Leipzig to a surprising victory over Atalanta in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa League in 2022.
On a positive note, another player from Atalanta is set to don the blue jersey of the national team, with 25-year-old goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi called up by coach Luciano Spalletti as a replacement for the unavailable Guglielmo Vicario. This development highlights the club’s ability to nurture talent that is recognized on an international stage.
The ongoing deliberations regarding the coaching position reflect Atalanta’s aspirations to maintain competitiveness while integrating a style of play that aligns with their historical success. As they evaluate their options, the focus remains on maximizing the potential of their existing squad while also preparing for the future.