The recent trend in Italian football seems to point towards a new wave of talent emerging from Atalanta, potentially helping the national team during a crucial period. Unlike past experiences with Juventus or Inter’s group of players, which generated success for Italy, Atalanta’s rising stars could offer something fresh and vital for the Azzurri.
As Italy prepares for their upcoming matches in the Nations League against France on September 6 and Israel on September 9, the pressure is mounting. These games will play a significant role in shaping Italy’s journey in a competition where they finished third in both 2021 and 2023. However, the looming shadow of past failures in World Cup qualification – missing out in 2018 and 2022 against Sweden and North Macedonia, respectively – adds further urgency to the need for a squad overhaul. Coach Luciano Spalletti is in dire need of a team infused with enthusiasm and a broader perspective, one that can grow together and embrace tactical ideas similar to his own.
The performance of several “azzurrabili” players training at Atalanta is a positive sign for Spalletti. Under the guidance of coach Gian Piero Gasperini, these players are being schooled in all aspects of the game, from technique to tactical awareness and physical preparation.
Currently, Mateo Retegui stands out as a key player following Gianluca Scamacca’s injury. Retegui’s transfer to Atalanta provides him with an opportunity to gain invaluable international experience by playing in the Champions League and competing for higher league positions. Although he may not yet measure up to Europe’s top strikers, Retegui has shown that he can find the net in various ways and be a focal point for his team. He is a fighter, unafraid of physical challenges. With Scamacca sidelined for an extended period, Retegui has emerged as Italy’s primary center-forward.
Another newcomer, Nicolò Zaniolo, has the potential to add depth to the national team. Moving to Bergamo could be transformative for him as he aims to become a more complete and impactful player. If Gasperini can replicate the positive development seen with Charles De Ketelaere, Spalletti will have yet another asset to rely on. Zaniolo can play on the wing or just behind the striker, and perhaps even adopt the movements of a false nine while learning in the Atalanta system.
Atalanta also boasts other promising talents such as Marco Carnesecchi, Giacomo Ruggeri, and the recovering Giorgio Scalvini, who is expected back in 2025 after his long injury layoff. With Scalvini born in 2003, Ruggeri in 2002, and Carnesecchi in 2000, this young core could form the backbone of Italy’s future.
As Atalanta continues to nurture new talents, Spalletti will surely keep a close eye on developments at Zingonia. The new Italian national team desperately needs fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and well-trained players to compete on the international stage.
