Gasperini: ‘Only negative aspect of Champions League for Atalanta’

Gian Piero Gasperini has warned that Club Brugge could pose a serious threat to Atalanta in their Champions League play-off clash, highlighting the Belgian side’s pace, intensity, and ability to hurt teams when they least expect it.

Despite missing several key players, including Ademola Lookman, Gianluca Scamacca, and Sead Kolasinac, Atalanta will look to take control in the first leg in Bruges on Wednesday.

Gasperini acknowledged his disappointment at narrowly missing out on direct qualification to the last 16 but remains excited about the challenge.

While playing extra games increases the risk of injuries, Gasperini believes the Champions League experience strengthens the team’s domestic form. Atalanta will need to be fully focused as they aim to secure an advantage before the return leg in Bergamo.