Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini expressed pride in his team’s Champions League campaign, despite narrowly missing out on automatic qualification to the last 16 after a 2-2 draw against Barcelona on Wednesday.
Atalanta’s Playoff Fate
The Europa League champions finished ninth in the standings, meaning they must now navigate a two-legged playoff to reach the knockout rounds. They will face either Club Brugge or Sporting Lisbon in February.
Gasperini’s Positive Outlook
Despite the disappointment, Gasperini remained optimistic:
“We are Atalanta, we have to be happy to play in the Champions League, to compete with the best European teams.”
He also emphasized the importance of the experience:
“For us, it is all a great experience, hearing the fans sing in these stadiums… Those who think differently must be frustrated.”
What Could Have Been
Atalanta were in seventh place before the match and needed a win over five-time European champions Barcelona to avoid the playoffs.
When asked if he felt regret, Gasperini was clear:
“We are in the Champions League. We will next play and see what happens against Sporting or Brugge. It’s not like we’re used to it.”
Atalanta’s Champions League Journey
Atalanta’s rise in Europe has been remarkable:
- 2019-20: Quarterfinals in their Champions League debut
- 2020-21: Round of 16
- 2021-22: Group stage exit
Now, they hope to return to the knockout rounds with a playoff victory in February.