Caleb Okoli is the classic product of Atalanta’s youth academy, where he started playing from the Under-15s up to the Primavera. After his spells at Spal and Cremonese, the Italian defender is increasingly showcasing himself with Atalanta. In Verona, the young defender played his second game as a starter: “It was important that we won”.

Caleb Okoli, it was a difficult game, we knew it would be like this. It’s never easy to play away to Hellas [Verona], but, in the end, the result is what counts and Atalanta won.

“Yes, the game was very balanced in the beginning but as the game dragged on, we managed to seal the three points. That’s the important thing”.

Hellas Verona were aggressive and tried to prevent you from playing. However, you did not panic, you kept calm.

“It’s what the coach wanted us to do. We had to be compact when they attacked so that we could go on the counterattack and create chances. That’s what we did”.

Caleb, how satisfied are you? You are one of the products of Atalanta’s youth academy.

“Yes, I’m very happy. I joined Atalanta at the Under-15 level and came through the Academy until I played for Atalanta’s Under-19 team. Then I spent two years in Serie B and now I’m here, playing my chances with coach Gasperini and my teammates”.

You came here, you are slowly making yourself known and you’re ‘convincing’ the coach.

“I’m very happy, I also heard his words [of praise]. I am happy with what he thinks of me. I hope to continue to give my best, for the team”.

Caleb, now there’s a midweek game against Torino, you’re tied on points, 7.

“We have to recharge our batteries right away and immediately focus on Torino. We have to win the game like we did today”.