Atalanta coach Maurizio Sarri admits that a 0-0 draw against Hapoel Tel Aviv in the Conference League play-off was ‘not positive’ and feels his players should have shown ‘more courage’ in attack.
Atalanta were held to a 0-0 home draw by Hapoel Tel Aviv on Thursday in the first leg of the Conference League play-off.
Atalanta 0-0 Hapoel Tel Aviv – Sarri’s post-match interview
“If you examine the result, it is clearly not positive, but I’m satisfied with the performance,” Sarri said at a post-match press conference via TMW.
“The team was tidy, but in attack we tend to overthink, which slows things down. We tried to take initiative from the wings, but we didn’t manage to be dangerous. I see a lot of positives even if I’m aware of difficulties. Then we are talking about a team that had eight players at the World Cup and returned later on. There are difficulties, but also positive aspects.”
Italy international Giorgio Scalvini was subbed off early in the first half due to an ankle injury.
“Giorgio has a swollen ankle; we’ll see tomorrow. In midfield, I’m pleased with Gaetano, who put in a good performance,” Sarri said.
“Ederson needs to be more disciplined, although he is fundamental, and Samardzic took the initiative for 60 minutes. I’m more concerned about the attacking moves down the flanks. That’s an area we definitely need to improve. However, I’m convinced that we are a solid team.”
Sarri was asked for his thoughts on the performance of Italy international Giacomo Raspadori, who started the game on the left wing.
“I expected more from both him and Zalewski, perhaps more courage with the ball at their feet,” the coach admitted.
Thomas Kristensen made his competitive debut for Atalanta when he replaced Scalvini in the 26th minute. Kristensen is one of Atalanta’s new summer signings, having joined La Dea from Udinese just a few weeks ago.
“He has trained with us a few times,” Sarri noted.
“Individually, he played very well, even if he still has some areas to improve tactically.”
Lastly, Sarri was asked whether the team needs further reinforcements before the end of the summer transfer window on September 1.
“The sporting director should answer this,” he concluded.
“If I reply, I’d disrespect some of my players, and I don’t want to do it.”
