Atalanta consider Sarri among options for post-Gasperini era

Atalanta are considering potential successors for Gian Piero Gasperini, as the long-serving coach recently admitted he could leave the club at the end of the season.

After nearly nine years in charge, the uncertainty regarding the Italian tactician’s future prompted La Dea to explore options for a managerial transition.

Atalanta line up candidates for post-Gasperini era: Sarri and De Zerbi on La Dea’s shortlist

According to Calciomercato.com, Atalanta have identified three primary candidates, with Maurizio Sarri emerging as a strong contender.

The former Napoli, Juventus, and Lazio boss is renowned for his tactical philosophy, which could align well with Atalanta’s attacking identity. Sarri is currently without a club after parting ways with Lazio and could be open to a return to Serie A.

Raffaele Palladino has also attracted significant attention for his work at Monza and Fiorentina.

The 40-year-old coach has impressed with his ability to develop young talent and implement an organised, modern playing style, making him a highly credible candidate to succeed a coach he reportedly considers one of his key influences. Interestingly, the current Viola boss once played under him at Genoa.

Among Italian managers, Olympique Marseille’s Roberto De Zerbi could also be an intriguing option for the job, with his offensive football philosophy having already earned him widespread admiration internationally. However, his past ties with rivals Brescia could make his integration in Bergamo particularly challenging.

Ivan Juric, another of Gasperini’s disciples, is also considered a potential candidate, alongside Igor Tudor and Ralf Rangnick. The latter is reportedly seen as a particularly exciting option by Atalanta’s owners, who view him as the ideal figure to further internationalise the club.