Palladino ready for strong Juventus test

Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino is aiming to go further in the Coppa Italia as they prepare for a clash against Juventus.

The tactician who cares about the competition revealed that attacker Ademola Lookman was sold after asking for a transfer upon receiving an offer from La Liga side Atletico Madrid.

Atalana will host the Turin club at the Gewiss Stadium on Thursday, a last-eight clash that could be decided after 90 minutes. It can also proceed directly to a penalty shoot-out if both sides finish on level terms, without requiring extra time.

The winners will book a semifinal ticket against either Bologna or Lazio.

Speaking about his Coppa Italia ambitions, the manager expects a fascinating game against a strong team in good form. He also complimented Luciano Spalletti’s men for playing fine football.

Palladino further told Sport Mediaset that it’s an important match for La Dea because the club aims to progress further in the competition.

After the winter transfer window was shut, Atalanta recorded just one departure and signing, the arrival of Giacomo Raspadori from Atletico Madrid, while Lookman went the opposite direction.

He revealed that Lookman had offers towards the end of the transfer session and asked to leave as he wanted a change of scenery.

The coach further lauded his squad for being strong and competitive, adding that there are many qualities at his disposal.

With this, he is spoilt for choice on who to start tonight. However, he won’t be able to call on Honest Ahanor, who was red-carded against Como ten minutes into the Serie A tie last weekend.

Atalanta were able to secure a goalless draw against Cesc Fabregas’ men, playing with  10 men for almost the entire match, and Marco Carnesecchi saved the last-gasp Nico Paz penalty.

He said Ahanor won’t be fined for his dismissal, as he is a young player who is well aware of his mistake.