Atalanta Eyes Historic Win Over Unbeaten Leverkusen In Europa League Clash
Atalanta captain Marten de Roon is optimistic about his team's chances of ending Bayer Leverkusen's unbeaten run in the Europa League final. Despite being sidelined due to injury, De Roon has joined the squad in Dublin to offer his support. Atalanta have had a notable campaign, reaching their first European final and securing a spot in next season's Champions League.
Leverkusen, on the other hand, clinched their first-ever Bundesliga title without losing a single match and are now aiming for a treble. De Roon remains confident that his side can end their 61-year wait for a major trophy. "Every team is beatable. At the moment, [Leverkusen] seem unbeatable, but maybe we are the ones who can change that," he stated during the pre-match press conference.
De Roon emphasized the importance of sticking to their philosophy and playing attacking football. "We have to believe in our philosophy, play attacking football and try to beat them. You don't win a trophy if you don't beat the best. We have had a great campaign, and we fully deserve to be here," he added.
Atalanta narrowly missed out on the Coppa Italia final earlier this month, losing to Juventus. Gian Piero Gasperini is now preparing for his first European final as a manager. The Italian coach praised Leverkusen but also expressed confidence in his own team's abilities after an impressive season.
"We are aware that we are facing a great team. We know that they are undefeated, and we know that they have had an amazing season. Our journey, however, was also very good as we beat very strong teams to reach the final, and we also have belief," Gasperini said.
Gasperini acknowledged Leverkusen's strengths, describing them as a complete and extremely organised team. "Leverkusen are versatile; they can defend and recover the ball well. The results they have achieved this season are not an accident," he noted.
The Atalanta manager stressed the importance of small details in determining the outcome of the final. "Certainly, small details can make the difference in a final. We have to respect them and try to adapt quickly to the opponents we are facing," Gasperini concluded.
Just one more day A domani, @EuropaLeague #AtalantaBayer04 #UEL #GoAtalantaGo pic.twitter.com/QdHECjAYwZ
— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) May 21, 2024
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