After their impressive Europa League triumph last season, Atalanta is eyeing a significant leap in Serie A this year. While fans might be cautious about dreaming of a title challenge, it seems the ambition to compete for the Scudetto is more realistic than many might believe. Club leaders Percassi and Pagliuca have not sold any key players and have reinforced Gian Piero Gasperini’s squad with three intriguing additions that can play various roles.
The changes, particularly in defense, come as they cope with the injury of Scalvini, who is expected to return around late 2024 to early 2025. They secured 26-year-old defender Ben Godfrey from Everton, a versatile and dependable player. In midfield, they brought in Sulemana from Cagliari, providing valuable depth, while attention will be on the attack to see if Gasperini can revive the talents of Nicolò Zaniolo, following the successful integration of players like Ilicic, Muriel, Zapata, and De Ketelaere in previous seasons.
For fantasy football enthusiasts, one defender to keep an eye on is Isak Hien, who is ready to step up after spending six months learning the ropes. Midfield stars Ederson and Koopmeiners are set to be reliable picks; Koopmeiners boasts a remarkable fantasy average of 7.48 from last season. Up front, Lookman appears to be the most dependable option, having overcome injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations, and following a stellar performance in the Europa League final, he is primed for another double-digit goal season.
Attention will undoubtedly be on Nicolò Zaniolo in the fantasy realm, especially given Gasperini’s history of rejuvenating players. Godfrey is another new signing to watch; however, he might initially struggle to secure a regular spot due to the complex dynamics of Atalanta’s system. Additionally, El Bilal Touré, who missed almost all of last season with injury, is set to be a fresh alternative for Scamacca.
Expected lineup in a 3-4-2-1 formation could be: Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Zappacosta, Ederson, Koopmeiners, Ruggeri; Zaniolo, Lookman; Scamacca. Potential rotation includes Djimsiti/Godfrey, Zappacosta/Hateboer, and Zaniolo/De Ketelaere. Penalty duties could likely fall to Koopmeiners, Lookman, and De Ketelaere, while free kicks might be taken by Koopmeiners, Scamacca, and Lookman.
As Atalanta sets out on this new season, fans and fantasy players alike are eager to see how their new signings will fit into a side known for its attacking flair and tactical acumen.
