Atalanta coach Ivan Juric recently sat down with SportMediaset to provide an initial assessment of his tenure with the club. He delved into various crucial topics, from squad rotation and the challenges posed by international breaks to individual player performances and the team`s overarching ambitions.
Navigating a Demanding Fixture List
Juric highlighted the critical importance of squad depth in facing a packed schedule. He explained, “We have seven matches in twenty days; everyone will play and everyone must be ready. To achieve our objectives, I believe it`s essential to utilize the entire squad.” This statement underscores his philosophy of relying on every player to effectively manage a busy period.
Early Season Performance and Points Missed
When asked about his initial expectations for the season`s start, Juric expressed satisfaction with the team`s displays while admitting to a degree of frustration over points that slipped away. “We are pleased with the performances and how the team is progressing. We deserved more points, and that`s what stings a bit,” he candidly admitted.
Building on a Solid Foundation
Juric also discussed taking over from Gian Piero Gasperini, acknowledging the strong work ethic already instilled in the team. He remarked, “Absolutely, but there`s more to it. You need to be very skilled, changing certain things without disrupting the existing balance. It`s not easy, but so far it`s going well, as the group is extremely intelligent and keen to work effectively,” praising the squad`s adaptability and commitment.
The Lazio Challenge: Counter-Attack Threat
Looking ahead to the upcoming clash with Lazio, Juric pinpointed their primary strength. “They are extremely strong on counter-attacks due to the characteristics of players like Dia, Tavares, Cancellieri… They`ve won their games precisely by leveraging this ability,” he stated, emphasizing the need for his team to be vigilant against their rapid transitions.
Restarting After the International Break
The coach further addressed the inherent difficulties of resuming play after international breaks. Juric elaborated, “It`s not easy because those who remained trained well, while others experienced particular emotions and expended a lot of emotional energy playing for their country, which is special. We need to get them back on track immediately, instill in them that Atalanta is what matters, and start strong right away.” His comments shed light on the psychological aspects of managing players returning from national duty.
Offensive Options and Scamacca`s Anticipated Return
Discussing the team`s attacking versatility, Juric acknowledged the breadth of talent but also expressed a specific hope for one key player. “We have many options. We are all still waiting for Scamacca to return to his past form so we can have two top-quality central strikers. So far, we`re doing well, we can still improve, but it`s good,” he affirmed, indicating confidence in his current attack while looking forward to Scamacca`s full contribution.
Hopes for Lookman`s Continued Drive
Juric specifically spoke about Ademola Lookman, conveying his wish for the player to maintain his positive approach. “I hope he returns from the national team with the same spirit I observed in the 2-3 weeks he worked with us. During that period, he was flawless: great attitude, positivity, and a desire to make up for lost time this summer. He`s not yet at his peak, but I hope to see him with that drive he showed us,” Juric shared.
Highlighting Lookman`s significance, Juric added, “He was voted the best African player, and that says it all. The other day he played in an unfamiliar position for the first time and showed good things; only a goal was missing.”
Consistent Approach to All Competitions
When questioned about his perspective on the Champions League, Juric maintained a consistent philosophical stance. “I don`t perceive it differently from a match against Juventus or Torino… I approach all games with the same mindset.” This statement underlines his belief in treating every match with equal gravity and focus.
Atalanta`s Scudetto Ambitions
Regarding Atalanta`s potential in the Scudetto race, he offered a measured yet ambitious outlook. “As Atalanta`s history shows, we want to be competitive. It depends on many factors, but we aim to compete well and be fully engaged in every match. This is our primary objective,” he asserted, defining the club`s consistent drive for competitiveness.
Goalkeeper Assessment: Svilar vs. Carnesecchi
Finally, Juric provided an insightful comparison between his two goalkeepers, Mile Svilar and Marco Carnesecchi. “They are both excellent goalkeepers. Currently, Svilar is ahead of Carnesecchi due to the specific technical work done over the last 3-4 years with the goalkeeping coach, particularly in goalkeeping techniques,” he clarified, detailing Svilar`s current advantage.
He continued with a positive assessment of Carnesecchi`s potential: “Carnesecchi possesses immense talent and enormous room for improvement; I hope he surpasses Svilar because he has the ability to do so, but at the moment, in certain aspects, Svilar is ahead.” This balanced evaluation underscores both the present hierarchy and the promising future for Carnesecchi.
