Percassi hints at new Atalanta agreement for Palladino
Atalanta director Luca Percassi hints that coach Raffaele Palladino will be given a contract extension after getting them back into the race for the top four as they host Juventus.
It kicks off at the New Balance Arena at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).
It had seemed impossible for La Dea to dream of the top four when Palladino took over from Ivan Juric in November, but they have surged up the standings, as well as reaching the Coppa Italia semi-final and Champions League Round of 16.
A win here would put them within a point of both Juventus and Roma, awaiting Como’s big game with Inter, while Milan lost 3-0 to Udinese and put third place up for grabs too.
Atalanta revitalised by Palladino
“We care a great deal about Serie A, obviously the points mean more at this stage of the season, and we hope to do well against big opponents,” Percassi told Sky Sport Italia.
Luciano Spalletti just signed a new contract with Juventus to June 2028, so do Atalanta intend on rewarding Palladino with a similar agreement?
“We have a very good rapport with the coach, we already talked about it, he is very happy to be with Atalanta. However, we had so many games to play that we decided to postpone talks for a few weeks.”
Palladino oversaw 12 victories, four draws and four defeats in Serie A.
Champions League qualification would be a significant financial boost, so does that change their transfer strategy?
“The club wants to have a competitive squad, so we’ll ponder every decision we make and try to do things well. We know there’s a lot of competition, but the fans are right behind us and create a unique atmosphere, so this remains a good place to work,” replied Percassi.
Isak Hien was already ruled out, but Kamaldeen Sulemana is also sent to the stands after suffering a bruised foot in training.
Gianluca Scamacca and Giacomo Raspadori are still working their way back to full fitness after injuries.
