Gasperini Set to End Historic Nine-Year Tenure at Atalanta

Gian Piero Gasperini has told Atalanta he plans to leave. His nine-year stay turned the club into a top team in Italy.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The 67-year-old manager met with Atalanta‘s leaders, including the Percassi family, co-owner Pagliuca, and sporting director D’Amico, on Tuesday morning. During this meeting, Gasperini said he would leave after nine successful seasons. The talk was about his personal reasons, not about the team or transfers. It seems he wants a new challenge.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Gasperini’s leaving might end an era for Atalanta. He made the team a European regular, winning their first major trophy in 61 years – the 2024 Europa League title. Under Gasperini, the team was always in the Serie A‘s top eight, finishing third this season. His skills won him two Serie A Coach of the Year awards, making Atalanta one of Italy’s most exciting teams.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Gasperini may go to Roma, with reports of positive talks there. Milan also seems interested. Atalanta wants Gasperini to decide quickly so they can plan for his replacement, since next season they will play Champions League football.

WHAT GASPERINI SAID

After Atalanta’s last season match against Parma, Gasperini suggested he might leave. He said: “We need to talk with the club. Many players may leave, and I’m not sure we can keep the same results. For the first time, I’m sorry to say, we will have to lower the bar, but a discussion with the club will have to happen.” These words now seem to show his intention to leave Bergamo.