Atalanta are preparing for their crucial Champions League match against Sturm Graz with a nearly complete squad, with only Gianluca Scamacca and Odilon Kossounou definitively ruled out. Sead Kolasinac returns after serving a Serie A suspension, while veteran Juan Cuadrado remains a doubtful inclusion.
The wing-back positions will likely be filled by a combination of Raoul Bellanova, Matteo Ruggeri, and Davide Zappacosta. Manager Gian Piero Gasperini has multiple tactical options, with Mateo Retegui and Ademola Lookman already selected, and Charles De Ketelaere potentially joining the attack.
De Ketelaere brings impressive Champions League credentials, having been directly involved in seven goals across six appearances this season, making him a potent offensive weapon for Atalanta.
Sturm Graz arrive at the match with significant squad challenges after losing key players Mika Biereth and Jusuf Gazibegovic during the winter transfer window. Injuries to Max Johnston and Seedy Jatta further complicate their lineup.
The Austrian side will likely feature a youthful setup, with as many as five teenagers potentially involved. Amady Camara, Malick Yalcouye, Lovro Zvonarek, Arjan Malic, and Konstantin Schopp have already gained experience in the competition’s league phase.
Goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen, recently returned from knee surgery, provides a boost to Sturm Graz’s defensive options as they look to challenge the more experienced Italian side.
Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Zappacosta; De Ketelaere, Lookman; Retegui
Sturm Graz (4-4-2): Scherpen; Geyrhofer, Aiwu, Wuthrich, Lavalee; Chukwuani, Yalcouye, Stankovic, Kiteishvili; Boving, Jatta
