Atalanta opened their season with a ridiculous 11-match winning run. This incredible feat propelled them to first place overall in the league standings by mid-December. That accomplishment underlined just how much of a threat they were becoming as a dark horse contender for the Scudetto. Yet a later winless streak of 4 matches saw them fall to 3rd in the table. Atalanta stood strong and solidified their staying power with an important win against AC Milan.
The 11-game winning streak earlier in the season marked a historic achievement for Atalanta, showcasing their strength on the pitch. This run of accomplishment raised them to the top of their competition and created great hopes for the rest of the season. Atalanta had come under much added pressure following a winless spell that was bordering on dire. They did their best to hold it together over this difficult stretch.
Even with the damage done, Atalanta’s next match, a victory over AC Milan at the San Siro, became key. The narrow 1-0 victory not only reinforced their standing in third place but solidified their grip on a Champions League spot, keeping them four points ahead of their nearest competitors. Atalanta had a huge season, finishing in third place with 78 points. They only missed first and second place by seven points.
Gasperini Reflects on the Season
His coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, was rightly proud of his team’s attractive play and successful Premier League campaign. In summary, he confirmed that scoring 64 points is nothing to be ashamed of self-affirming, saying,
“Let’s not joke, how can you have regrets with 64 points?” – Gian Piero Gasperini
His later comments underscore a realpolitik view that celebrates the victories the team achieved rather than mourning the potentially larger success the truck could have found. Atalanta’s heavy defeats to eventual league winners Inter Milan hurt their goal difference and placed 3rd in the final table. Which is not to say Gasperini isn’t proud of his squad’s achievements.
As he rightly said, Atalanta were not in the race for the Scudetto this year. He cautioned the need to know the story, or context, behind their output. He remarked,
“It’s true, we are seven points off the top two and this is down to the head-to-head games lost against the leaders.” – Gian Piero Gasperini
Looking Ahead
Atalanta has a new season to prepare for. In January, Gasperini made it clear that qualifying for the Champions League was a key objective for him, the club, and the passionate supporters of Atalanta in Bergamo. He understood how important it was to continue from the accomplishments of this season. Alongside that, he was realistic about the challenges posed by bigger clubs in Italian football.
Reflecting on their season, Gasperini stated,
“For me it’s an incredible season, tonight’s victory gives us the chance to reach the Champions League again, which is an extraordinary goal, fundamental for Bergamo.” – Gian Piero Gasperini
Leave a Reply