Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Atalanta: The Rise of a Footballing Underdog

 

Atalanta Bergamasca Calcio, a name once whispered among Italy’s lesser-known footballing sides, has emerged as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and audacity. Founded in 1907 by Swiss students and their physical education coach in Bergamo, the club’s origins are as humble as its journey to prominence has been remarkable. Named after the fleet-footed heroine of Greek mythology, Atalanta embodies the spirit of defying odds and outrunning challenges. 

The Genesis of a Legacy

Bergamo’s footballing history dates back to 1903 when Swiss immigrants established Foot-Ball Club Bergamo. The creation of Atalanta was born out of a division among local sporting societies. Despite its ambitions, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) did not officially recognize Atalanta until 1914. A merger with Bergamasca in 1920 resulted in the modern-day Atalanta Bergamasca Calcio, donning the now-iconic black-and-blue stripes. 

Atalanta joined the Italian league in 1929, reaching Serie A in 1937, only to be relegated immediately. The club’s early years were marked by oscillation between Serie A and Serie B, with brief stints of success, including a fifth-place finish in 1948. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that Atalanta began carving out a more stable identity. A relegation to Serie C1 in 1981 served as a wake-up call, and by 1984, the club had returned to Serie A. 

Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Atalanta remained a perennial underdog, often dismissed as fodder for Italy’s footballing giants. That narrative began to shift in the summer of 2016, with the arrival of Gian Piero Gasperini. 

The Gasperini Revolution

Gasperini’s appointment marked a turning point. Known for his tactical ingenuity and emphasis on youth development, he transformed Atalanta into one of Europe’s most exciting teams. In his debut season, the club finished fourth in Serie A, earning a spot in the UEFA Europa League. While early European campaigns ended in heartbreak, Gasperini’s vision was clear: attack with flair, defend with organization and play without fear.

Breaking away from traditional Italian pragmatism, Gasperini’s Atalanta embraced an aggressive, high-risk, possession-based system. His fluid 3-4-3 formation, often morphing into 3-4-1-2 or 3-5-2, emphasized quick passing, off-the-ball movement, and relentless pressing. This tactical philosophy, inspired by Dutch football and Louis van Gaal’s Ajax, prioritized scoring over caution. 

The results were transformative. In 2018-19, after a slow start, Atalanta went on a 13-match unbeaten run to finish third in Serie A, securing their first-ever Champions League berth. They also reached the Coppa Italia final, defeating Juventus 3-0 in the quarterfinals before falling to Lazio in the final. 

A New Era of European Ambition

Atalanta’s maiden Champions League campaign in 2019-20 began disastrously, with three consecutive losses. Yet, the team’s resolve never wavered. A 3-0 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on the final matchday propelled them into the knockout stages, becoming only the second team in history to advance after losing their first three group matches. 

In the round of 16, Atalanta dismantled Valencia, winning 4-1 at home and 4-3 away, to reach the quarterfinals for the first time. This achievement marked a watershed moment for a club that had spent decades in the shadows of Italy’s footballing elite. 

The Gasperini Blueprint

Gasperini’s tactical acumen has been instrumental in Atalanta’s rise. His reliance on versatile midfielders, dynamic wing-backs, and creative forwards has turned Atalanta into a goal-scoring juggernaut. The 2019-20 Serie A season saw them outscore even Juventus, with Duván Zapata, Josip Iličić, and Luis Muriel each netting 15 or more goals—a feat unmatched since 1952. 

Despite the attacking brilliance, Gasperini’s high-risk approach has drawn criticism for defensive vulnerabilities. Yet, his philosophy has won admirers across the footballing world, including Pep Guardiola. 

A Clash with PSG: A Test of Resolve

As Atalanta prepares to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarterfinals, Gasperini’s side carries the hopes of Bergamo—a city devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Gasperini himself acknowledges the emotional weight of this match: 

"We know very well the anticipation around this match, given the passion and love around Bergamo for Atalanta. This year, there is even more motivation given all that has happened."

PSG, despite injuries and suspensions, possess a formidable weapon in Neymar. Gasperini recognizes the challenge: 

"He is undoubtedly one of the strongest in the world. The best way to defend is to play well. We’ll try to stop him with our organization."

A Symbol of Hope

Atalanta’s journey is more than a footballing story; it is a testament to perseverance and ambition. From the gymnasium of Liceo Classico Paolo Sarpi to the grand stage of the Champions League, the club has defied expectations at every turn. 

As the only Italian club in the quarterfinals, Atalanta carries the pride of a nation and the dreams of a city. Gasperini’s words encapsulate their mission: 

"We want to continue to show that Atalanta can sit at the table of the biggest clubs."

Whatever the outcome against PSG, Atalanta’s rise is a reminder that in football, as in life, the underdog can dare to dream—and sometimes, those dreams come true.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar        

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