Gian Piero Gasperini met with the media. He was very energetic and said that Italian team is ready to score a lost goal against Real Madrid.
Worrying about Zinedine Zidane
Journalists started a press-conference with an interesting question. Gasperini was asked about the worries before the clash against Spanish giants. Gian Piero laughed and said that he is afraid of Zinedine Zidane as a player. If Zidane plays against Atalanta, then he would be worried but luckily to the team, he will be on the bench. Italian coach also said that he knows Zidane in person and has seen magic things from Zidane. When coaching the youth team of Juventus, he saw Zidane doing magic with Juve’s shirt a few decades ago. Gapserini answered in a very diplomatic manner. After this question, Italian coach noted that Real Madrid is not a team that wants to score a goal or play for 0-0. They will attack and Atalanta’s defense has to be ready for everything, added Atalanta’s coach.
Not being a favorite in the tie
Gasperini said that Atalanta is not a favorite and it’s a good sign. He said that team members know that not being favorite is a big motivation. The players of Atalanta know that they have to put 100% on the pitch against Real Madrid. At the same time, Los Blancos will have serious problems with the squad. Gasperini is aware of this situation and he said that luck is on the side of Atalanta. Keep in mind that Real Madrid can’t get help from Sergio Ramos, Hazard, Marcelo, Benzema, Carvajal, Valverde, Rodrygo and other starter players. Gasperini said that Atalanta’s players have extra motivation to fight against Real Madrid. This Champions League tie won’t be easy for any club – Atalanta wants to prove that they can defeat Real Madrid in both games.