Palladino focused on Atalanta's European push amid contract uncertainty
Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has insisted his side remain ambitious in their pursuit of European qualification despite their current seventh-place standing in Serie A. Speaking ahead of the club's match against Cagliari, Palladino emphasised that with 15 points still available this season, the race is far from over. The coach, whose own contract expires in 2027, stated that discussions over his future would wait until the end of the campaign, putting the team's immediate objectives first.
Palladino pointed to the team's underlying form as a source of optimism, noting that since his arrival, Atalanta have collected the fifth-highest points tally in the division, behind only Inter, Milan, Napoli, and Juventus. He acknowledged the disappointment of a recent Coppa Italia exit but praised his players' performances in key matches against top opposition. The manager argued that fine margins have cost his team, citing a lack of fortune and clinical edge in decisive moments rather than a failure to create chances.
The defensive solidity of the team has been a particular positive, with Atalanta boasting the third-best defensive record in Serie A. Palladino credited this to a collective effort, including the defensive work of his attacking players. However, the final stretch of the season will be complicated by an injury to key defender Lorenzo Bernasconi, who is ruled out for the final month. Alternatives such as Mitchel Bakker, Davide Zappacosta, Raoul Bellanova, and Yunus Musah are expected to fill the void.
Regarding his personal future, Palladino displayed a relaxed attitude. His current deal runs until June 2027, and he indicated no urgency to open extension talks. "Money means nothing to me. I become attached to clubs and people," Palladino said, according to reports. He added that any decision would be reviewed at the season's end, stressing that his present focus is solely on the team's performance. This stance comes amid a period of transition for the club, which has seen them compete on multiple fronts this season.
The immediate challenge is to close a significant gap to the European places, with several rivals holding games in hand. Palladino's primary objective is to ensure his team maintains its recent performance levels and converts opportunities into results. The coming weeks will determine if Atalanta can mount a late surge for a continental berth, a outcome that would undoubtedly strengthen Palladino's position as he enters the final year of his contract.
