Atalanta’s dream of challenging for the Scudetto has been hampered by an injury crisis that has decimated their once-deep squad. What began as a defensive issue has now spread to the attack, leaving manager Gian Piero Gasperini with limited options in a crucial phase of the season.
Calciomercato report that the intensity of Atalanta’s high-octane style, which propelled them to the top of Serie A at the winter break, has taken its toll. In recent weeks, the team has been without up to seven starters, with the attacking department hit particularly hard.
Ademola Lookman, a key figure in Atalanta’s success with 10 goals and 5 assists in 18 Serie A appearances, is doubtful for the upcoming Champions League playoff against Club Brugge due to a strong contusion suffered against Napoli. The burden of the attack has fallen on Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere, who have been forced to play every three days. De Ketelaere’s recent calf issue has added to the concerns, though he is expected to be available for the crucial match against his former club.
The situation is further complicated by the losses of Gianluca Scamacca, whose season has ended prematurely, and Daniel Maldini, who will be sidelined until March with a muscle injury. These setbacks have forced Gasperini to consider alternative solutions.
Retegui, enjoying the best form of his career with 20 goals and 3 assists in 22 Serie A appearances, will lead the line. Samardzic may rotate with Pasalic in the attacking midfield role, while Brescianini has emerged as a versatile option capable of playing multiple positions in attack.
As a last resort, Gasperini may turn to youth product Vlahovic, who has impressed with 16 goals and 6 assists in 23 appearances for the Under-23 team and has already made two appearances for the senior side.
