Raffaele Palladino and Atalanta manager Luca Percassi (@atalanta_bc)
Raffaele Palladino admits it was “fate” to make his debut for Atalanta against Napoli in his hometown. “We have to wipe the slate clean and start anew with self-respect.”
The match will kick off at 19:45 GMT at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.
You can follow all the build-up and action from today’s four Serie A matches on our live blog.
La Dea knew it would be difficult to start a new project after nine years under coach Gian Piero Gasperini, but after losing seven consecutive games in Serie A, including back-to-back defeats against Udinese and Sassuolo, they sacked coach Ivan Djuric.
Palladino was chosen because he resembles another coach, Juric, who started under coach Gasperini.
Palladino’s special return
Curiously, he made his debut in his hometown of Napoli, and although there were many family members in the stands, Atalanta supporters were barred from entering due to previous crowd troubles.
“Fate gives us such great opportunities. I had to start again in Napoli, in my city. It’s emotional to be here, but the goal tonight is for the team to perform well,” Paladino told Sky Sports Italia.
Giorgio Scalvini picked up a new muscle problem in training, forcing him to delay his return again, but apart from that he has a full squad to choose from.
Gianluca Scamacca and Nikola Krstovic were substituted on the bench along with Charles de Quetelaere and Ademola Lookman in place of Mario Pasalic.
“I was able to work with these players for two weeks, but in the first week I only worked with nine players, and then the rest of the players arrived from international duty. What impressed me is that they have great technical, physical and mental qualities.
“We have to work on everything, because of course when you change management you’re disappointed. We have to clean up the slate and start again with self-respect and the knowledge that this team can do well.”
“We’re starting small and it takes a little bit of patience, but they’re working hard and they’re going to give it their all.”
Curiously, Atalanta have won their last two Serie A outings at the Stadio Maradona in 2024, both by a 3-0 scoreline.
“This club has achieved incredible things in recent years, leaving an indelible mark on the history books,” Palladino continued.
“The president and the managers are the first to arrive at the training ground every morning. The training ground is a big family, and that includes the fans. We have to come together to take Atalanta as far as possible. We have what we need, but we need to keep our heads down and work because right now we are 13th.”
“Atalanta’s DNA is what has represented this club for many years and I want the players to take responsibility and prove their true worth. I will fight by their side and together we will be stronger.”
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