A victorious start to the season is always important for a number of reasons. In Genoa, we saw an Atalanta side who were capable of suffering, determined to play their game and, when necessary, even a little cynical. Coach Gian Piero Gasperini commented on the 2-0 victory over Sampdoria: “We did some good things”.
Gian Piero Gasperini, are you satisfied [with your team’s performance]? A good first win. It’s always important to start well.
“It’s always important to have a good start. This is a difficult ground, it was the season opener, and there was a lot of excitement coming from the fans and the opposition too. Today the lads were commendable, as always, for the commitment and the desire to bring home the result they showed. We have to improve on the technical level but we also did some good things. Kudos to these guys for winning this game, which wasn’t easy”.
Atalanta were cynical, they managed to suffer and tried to play their game.
“We defended quite well. We lacked a bit of clarity on a few counters and gave it away badly a few times. This created some problems for us in counterattacks. However, we created some dangerous plays and Lookman’s goal was also disallowed. In the first half, Mæhle smashed the post and there were two players in front of an open goal. There were some good things in that respect too, but we can still improve”.
You played Scalvini in the second half and Okoli also made his debut.
“Okoli did well but he doesn’t surprise me anymore. I have to work well on him because he has the means. It wasn’t easy today and he was also booked early. He was a bit naive in that situation. Those yellow cards can influence the game, but he did well. He makes some mistakes but even experienced players make them. However, there is always a sword hanging on young players. He convinces me more and more match after match, [I’m sure] he can do well. I had to play Scalvini in defence, I wished I could use him in midfield but right now we’re in an emergency. When Rafael [Toloi] came off, [I had to throw on Scalvini] as maybe Ruggeri is a little behind [in preparation]. The time will come for him too”.
There was great joy for Toloi’s goal and then for Lookman’s goal on his Atalanta debut, which was also his first one in Serie A. Moreover, there were 2,000 fans watching from the stands, without forgetting those at home.
“Seeing so many fans travelling with us is incredible. This cheering is amazing for the team, it’s a great boost for them. That’s why they gritted their teeth harder to get to the end of the game. This win allows us to arrive ready for Sunday. It’ll be an amazing day for Bergamo, as we’ll be up against the Italian champions. It’ll be an amazing appointment. We feel great excitement around the team. We are happy to have claimed this win for them”.