Maurizio Sarri emphasized Atalanta’s goal to establish “a new, great cycle,” while cautioning his team against underestimating Parma, even though they sit near the bottom of Serie A standings.

With quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, the coach addressed the media in Zingonia ahead of Monday’s matchup at the New Balance Arena, scheduled to start at 20:45 CET [19:45 GMT].

“We’re ambitious and we want to build the foundations for a new, great cycle,” Sarri stated. “It’s not an easy task starting over after another successful cycle, and injuries are complicating matters. But our aim is to create something as great as before.”

Currently, Atalanta ranks 11th with 11 points. Their last home game ended in a dramatic 4-4 draw with Frosinone, which resulted in discontent among their supporters. Following this, they played to a draw against Fiorentina on Thursday.

The squad faces significant challenges with several key players sidelined: Raoul Bellanova, Gianluca Scamacca, Franck Kessié, Sead Kolašinac, Isak Hien, Odilon Kossounou, and Giacomo Raspadori are all unavailable due to injuries. Kristensen sustained an injury early in the match against Fiorentina.

“The fans expressed their disappointment with whistles after the draw, but they supported us throughout the game,” Sarri noted. “We need our fans behind us, and I’m sure they’ll provide the support we require.”

Sarri Cautious about Facing Parma

Parma currently sits 18th with five points after a 0-0 draw against Udinese on Wednesday, but Sarri remains wary of Alberto Gilardino’s team.

“Parma is one of those teams at the bottom that has conceded relatively few goals. This won’t be an easy match,” he stated. “We should approach the game with humility and a clear head, prepared for any challenges that may arise.”

“Their position is mainly due to a low conversion rate of the chances they create. They’re dangerous and employ a solid low block in a 5-3-2 formation, often looking to counterattack. Every game in Serie A is tough these days.”

Sarri also defended his team’s fitness, urging for a more balanced approach. “Our running volume is high. Against Frosinone, we had 41 minutes of effective playing time compared to our average of 59 minutes, but we achieved the same output in fewer minutes,” he added. “Regarding injuries, we will reassess. I hope to have someone back soon, as playing three games in six days can be demanding.”

“The team must be more compact defensively, less exposed when opposing teams attack. We also need to maintain a higher defensive line, as the situation has been disrupted with so many different players in the back line.”