Atalanta Coach Sarri Confident Ahead of Conference League Rematch with Hapoel Tel Aviv
Atalanta coach Maurizio Sarri expressed respect for Hapoel Tel Aviv ahead of their Conference League second-leg match, following a 0-0 draw in the first leg. Sarri praised Hapoel Tel Aviv's physical fitness, defensive organization, and quick transitions, acknowledging their strengths but stating that Atalanta is not afraid of the Israeli side. He emphasized the need for his team to believe in their ability to win without arrogance.
Sarri also addressed the fitness of Charles De Ketelaere, who recently returned from injury and has had limited training and playing time. He indicated that De Ketelaere's involvement in the match would likely be partial, either starting or coming on as a substitute depending on the game's progression.
Regarding his attacking options, Sarri has yet to decide whether Gianluca Scamacca or Nikola Krstović will start, but he did not rule out the possibility of both playing together. He noted that their roles may alternate throughout the season based on form.
On Atalanta's goals in the competition, Sarri stated that the immediate priority is to qualify for the group stage of the Conference League, with ambitions for further success to be evaluated later. He acknowledged the overall rise in the tournament's quality in recent years.
The match will take place in Hungary, where Hapoel Tel Aviv will seek to complete the job and advance in the European competition.
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