After the turnover seen in the Italian Cup against Cesena, Atalanta is preparing to restore its typical formation for the match against Empoli. Gian Piero Gasperini finds some of his key players and returns to line up the fearsome trident with De Ketelaere, Retegui and Lookman, ready to resume the thread of victories in the championship. Five or six changes compared to Wednesday's match are expected to face a compact and organized opponent.
THE CALLED PEOPLE: IMPORTANT ABSENCES AND RETURNS
There are 23 players called up for the match, with some absences and important returns. Out due to disqualification are Marten de Roon (five yellows) and the injured Scalvini, dealing with a shoulder injury, and Scamacca, who will only return in February. Lookman, Ederson and Kolasinac, all rested against Cesena, are back available, as well as Cuadrado, who has served his suspension. The best news comes from Ruggeri: the full-back has overcome his foot contusion and will be on the list, although he could start from the bench.
ITHE TRIDENT FOUND
With de Roon's absence, Pasalic will take the reins of the midfield alongside Ederson. Up front, the 3-4-3 is ready to return to the forefront: De Ketelaere, Retegui and Lookman should start for the first time in three weeks. It is no coincidence that Gasperini chose to relaunch his “three tenors” against Empoli, a team that deploys a three-man defence, an ideal scenario to exploit the speed and technique of his best men.
CHOICES IN DEFENSE AND BETWEEN GOALS
In defence, the Nerazzurri coach will be spoiled for choice with four options for three places. Kossounou and Kolasinac, fresh after rest in the Cup, seem favorites to partner Hien or Djimsiti in the centre. Between the posts, Marco Carnesecchi will resume his starting place, after making room for Rui Patricio on Wednesday. On the wings, Bellanova and Zappacosta remain the main candidates, with Ruggeri ready to take over if necessary.
OBJECTIVE TO CONTINUE FLYING
Atalanta – presents the match The Echo of Bergamo – comes to this challenge with great confidence, thanks to a spectacular game and a winning mentality. The finishing touches scheduled for this morning will be the last step before returning to the Gewiss Stadium, where the Nerazzurri are looking for another victory to keep up with the big teams and confirm their lead in the standings. The match against Empoli represents an important test to verify the solidity of the team and the full return of the big names. With the trident rediscovered and the support of the public, the Goddess is ready to enchant once again.
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