Gian Piero Gasperini is expected to field his strongest available lineup for this weekend’s clash with Como after integrating fringe players like experienced defender Rafael Toloi and young wing-back Marco Palestra earlier in the week for their Champions League win over Sturm Graz.
Atalanta face some defensive challenges, with Odilon Kossounou and Isak Hien unavailable due to injury and suspension, respectively. Additionally, Italian internationals Nicolo Zaniolo and Gianluca Scamacca are out of contention.
The attacking trident for La Dea is likely to consist of Ademola Lookman, Charles De Ketelaere, and the in-form Mateo Retegui. Retegui has been particularly impressive, netting 14 goals in 19 league appearances this season, including recent strikes against Juventus and Napoli following his return from injury.
On the opposing side, Cesc Fabregas has bolstered his attacking options with the return of Nico Paz. New signing Assane Diao has made an immediate impact, while Patrick Cutrone and Andrea Belotti compete for the starting striker position.
However, Fabregas’ team is not without its concerns. Midfielder Sergi Roberto continues to struggle with a muscular issue, and Edoardo Goldaniga is suspended for one match following his red card against Udinese. There is still uncertainty surrounding the fitness of three players: full-backs Alberto Moreno and Ignace Van der Brempt are dealing with flexor problems, while veteran forward Alessandro Gabrielloni is battling a calf injury.
Como (4-2-3-1): Butez; Iovine, Dossena, Kempf, Moreno; Da Cunha, Caqueret; Diao, Paz, Fadera; Cutrone
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Djimsiti, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Ruggeri; De Ketelaere, Lookman; Retegui
