Atalanta, Bellanova: "I've improved thanks to Sarri. I see one
According to Tuttomercatoweb.
Why this matters
Raoul Bellanova's evolution under the guidance of Maurizio Sarri is a reflection of Atalanta's growing competitiveness on the European football stage. With the Conference League gaining relevance, every point counts for the Italian team's affirmation, especially against a strong opponent like Ajax, who has a rich history in European football.
Main conclusions
- Atalanta, Bellanova: "I improved thanks to Sarri. I see one.
- Bellanova anticipates Atalanta–Ajax in the 2nd round of the Conference League and highlights its evolution under Sarri's influence, as well as the group's growth.
- Atalanta, Bellanova: "Migliorato thanks to Sarri. See a group that grows."
Raoul Bellanova previewed the meeting between Atalanta and Ajax in the 2nd round of the UEFA Europa Conference League, scheduled for tomorrow, late this Wednesday afternoon (18:40). The Italian right-back highlighted two key points at the moment for the Bergamo team: their individual evolution — “I improved thanks to Sarri” — and the collective’s upward trajectory — “I see a group that is growing”.
Without revealing tactical details, Bellanova highlighted the importance of gaining points in this early stage of the European competition. The Conference League, UEFA's third club competition, has been gaining weight in the continental calendar and provides teams with space to assert squad depth and game identity against traditional opponents. Ajax, a historic player in Dutch and European football, appears as a demanding test of Atalanta's competitive status, in a clash that promises intensity and details to decide the result.
The Italian team has become accustomed to European duels in recent seasons, benefiting from a record of consistency that helps them face these commitments with ambition. Even so, Bellanova recalled that balance marks this phase of the competition and that managing moments — from high pressure to reacting to loss, including effectiveness in set pieces — will be crucial to winning. The watchword is to continue to grow as a group, consolidating game principles and taking advantage of squad rotation in weeks with a tight schedule.
On the other hand, Ajax presents technical arguments and young talent that require maximum concentration during the 90 minutes. The ability to play, speed on the wings and the search for superiority between the lines are hallmarks of the Amsterdam team, factors that Atalanta will have to counter with organization, winning duels and rhythm management.
On an individual level, Bellanova highlighted the impact that certain training ideas had on her evolution, attributed “to Sarri”, and framed this growth in a collective context in which “the group is increasing in performance”. For the defender, the key is to transform good feelings into points and to maintain consistency between European games and domestic competitions.
With the kickoff scheduled for tomorrow, Atalanta and Ajax enter the field looking for a result that could set the trend for this 2nd round. For the Italians, it is the opportunity to confirm the climb as mentioned by Bellanova; for the Dutch, the chance to assert ambitions in the test. A balanced duel is expected, with minimal margin for error and decided on the small details that distinguish teams with greater competitive maturity.
What happens next
The meeting between Atalanta and Ajax will be crucial for the team's trajectory in the Conference League. Bellanova and her teammates need to demonstrate their ability to manage the game and adapt to the demands of the tournament, while continuing to develop their identity under Sarri's leadership.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the preview of the game between Atalanta and Ajax?
Raoul Bellanova previewed the match, highlighting his individual evolution and the growth of the Atalanta group.
Who confirmed the evolution of Bellanova?
Raoul Bellanova confirmed that he has improved thanks to coach Sarri.
Why is it important to score points at this stage of the competition?
Bellanova highlighted the importance of gaining points in the initial phase of the UEFA Europa Conference League to confirm the identity of the game and the depth of the squad.
What changes are Atalanta implementing to face Ajax?
Atalanta is focused on consolidating principles
ios game and take advantage of squad rotation, especially in weeks with a tight schedule.
Why is now a crucial moment for Atalanta in the competition?
The balance at this stage of the competition and the need to manage moments of pressure and effectiveness in set pieces make this a crucial moment.