Atalanta arrives at the match against Napoli with an emergency backline. Kolasinac’s absence due to disqualification adds to that of Kossounou, out of action for at least a month and a half, forcing Gasperini to rely on the Scalvini-Hien-Djimsiti trio, the only ones available to defend in front of Carnesecchi. In support, only Toloi from the bench, while plan B involves a possible retreat of de Roon, which however could create imbalances in the midfield.
MIDFIELD: DE ROON AND EDERSON THE CERTAINTIES
In the middle of the pitch, the coach does not want to give up the contribution of Marten de Roon and Ederson, two key points to guarantee balance and solidity. The Dutchman remains essential, especially to avoid emergency solutions such as moving to the defence. In this case, Pasalic would move to midfield, with Brescianini ready to fit into the attacking midfield. A hypothesis that Gasperini will carefully evaluate based on tactical needs.
BANDS: THREE NAMES FOR TWO JERSEYS
The battle for a place on the outside sees protagonists Bellanova, Ruggeri e Zappacosta. With the latter always starting recently, the choice could fall on the first two to guarantee freshness against Napoli’s incursions. Gasperini will decide only after finishing, aware of the importance of the push from the flanks in such a delicate match.
ATTACK: LOOKMAN CERTAINTY, THE OTHERS IN BALLOT
The offensive puzzle revolves around Lookman, the only untouchable in the Atalanta trident. Alongside him, Gasperini could confirm De Ketelaere and Pasalic, lined up against Juventus, but both are not going through the best moment of form. Samardzic is eager for a place and could threaten De Ketelaere, while Pasalic remains ahead of Brescianini.
RETEGUI READY TO AMAZE
Having returned from injury with a decisive goal against Juventus, Mateo Retegui represents a valid alternative to De Ketelaere. His ability to exploit the few opportunities could convince Gasperini to give him a chance from the first minute, especially against a solid defense like Napoli’s.
After yesterday’s training at the Bortolotti Centre, the team carried out a refinement this morning, a crucial moment to define the final choices. Gasperini has twenty-one players at his disposal, but with obvious limitations in defense and the need to carefully evaluate every detail to best face Napoli.
