New Coach`s Rapport with Attacking Midfielders Offers Lazar a Chance to Relaunch
Ivan Juric has consistently demonstrated a particular aptitude for working with players who naturally operate as attacking midfielders. His coaching history illustrates his ability to integrate them into his football philosophy, transforming them into versatile, all-around players. For the Croatian coach, quality is a crucial element, even amidst demands for intensity and aggression. This is why there`s considerable intrigue surrounding how he might best utilize Lazar Samardzic`s talent.
The Serbian player is approaching his second season in an Atalanta shirt. His first campaign, based primarily on performance metrics, wasn`t overwhelmingly successful. Gian Piero Gasperini`s tactical system at Atalanta didn`t typically feature the classic mezzala role (a dynamic central midfielder), a position Samardzic has shown he can interpret very effectively. The player thus committed himself to following Gasperini`s instructions, who deployed him both as one of two attacking midfielders behind a lone striker and at times as a slightly wider forward. Lazar struggled particularly with the physicality and aggression of opponents who, aware of his skill, consistently aimed to shut down his left foot, the source of his true talent. A combination of factors might have limited him, but with Juric`s arrival, the situation could change. Atalanta invested 20 million euros to sign him from Udinese.
Tactical Potential
It`s also worth remembering that both Inter and Milan were interested in him, having come close to reaching agreements with Udinese and his representatives at different junctures. The Bergamo club retains belief in him and his capabilities. It will fall to the new coach to help him unlock them. While the team will likely continue with a base 3-4-2-1 formation, a different tactical interpretation might provide Samardzic with the added impetus required to fully display his qualities. In previous years, Juric has successfully elevated players who started as attacking midfielders into high-performing, all-around players. Consider the example of Verona, where players like Antonin Barak and Mattia Zaccagni – despite possessing distinct characteristics – developed into complete footballers who attracted interest from Italy`s top clubs. They weren`t traditional attacking midfielders; rather, one was a skilled mezzala adept at making runs into the box, and the other a winger who enjoyed taking on defenders and dribbling. Both improved under Juric and contributed significantly to his style of play. This could therefore represent Samardzic`s opportunity, allowing him the chance to explore previously untapped aspects of his game. After all, one never truly finishes discovering oneself… and that applies on the pitch too. That said, La Dea boasts a particularly diverse group of players available for those critical attacking midfield positions. Beyond the well-known versatility of Mario Pasalic, there are two other profiles who could also be revitalized under Juric.
Daniel and Marco
One such player is Daniel Maldini. His initial six months in Bergamo helped him fully understand the club`s environment. The new season and the new coach could enable him to make a significant leap in quality. He possesses talent, vision, and a sensitive touch when striking the ball. With Juric, he might find the intensity and consistency needed throughout a match. Marco Brescianini has different attributes, but perhaps benefits from his physical build, which aids him. He is also a mezzala, but more physically imposing and used to exploiting space as an opportunity to push forward and seek scoring chances. He fits Juric`s intense footballing style well. Brescianini could be the type of attacking midfielder who perfectly balances both phases of the game: attentive in the non-possession phase, pressing opponents, and proactive in attacking space. In summary, Atalanta has a wealth of options for that crucial `tuttocampista` (all-around player) role.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
