Juric Calls for Atalanta’s Total Improvement Ahead of Milan Clash
As Atalanta prepare for their crucial Serie A meeting with AC Milan, head coach Ivan Juric has made it clear that his team must “improve in every area” if they are to get back on track. Speaking ahead of the match, Juric struck a reflective yet determined tone, addressing not only his team’s recent struggles but also wider events across Italian football.
The Croatian manager began his pre-match press conference by expressing sympathy for compatriot Igor Tudor, who was recently dismissed by Juventus. “I feel sorry for Tudor because he’s a Juventus man,” Juric admitted. “But this is our job. When you go through a period where performances are good but the results don’t come, you have to raise your level everywhere.” His comments revealed both respect for a fellow professional and an awareness of how fragile success can be in top-flight management.
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Turning his attention to his own camp, Juric sought to clear the air regarding his brief tension with goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, insisting that any misunderstanding was behind them. “Everything is absolutely fine,” he said firmly. “Words were said in the heat of the moment, but I’m very satisfied with his performances.” That reassurance was important, given Carnesecchi’s key role between the posts as Atalanta look to stabilize their defense.
Juric also confirmed that midfielder Marten de Roon’s use in defense was a tactical choice rather than an emergency measure. “It’s not a surprise,” he noted. “He does that role well.” Meanwhile, Sead Kolašinac remains short of full fitness, and striker Gianluca Scamacca, though recovering, will be eased back carefully. “He needs calm, but I’d like to get him playing soon,” Juric added.
Despite a frustrating run of draws and missed chances, the coach insisted the mood within the squad remains upbeat. “We’ve created a lot but haven’t turned it into goals,” he explained. “The team is alive. Lookman is fully involved, only missing that final touch.” Juric praised new signing Kossounou, hinting that the defender could start against Milan: “I’m pleased with his progress and I think he will play from the beginning.”
Looking ahead to the challenge posed by Milan, Juric admitted the schedule has been relentless. “Playing every two or three days is difficult,” he said. “We analyse everything day by day. To contain Milan, we’ll need rhythm and compactness.”
Atalanta haven’t celebrated a Serie A victory since September 21, and this upcoming clash could serve as a turning point. For Juric and his players, it’s not just another fixture — it’s a chance to reset their campaign, silence the critics, and remind everyone why Atalanta have become one of Italy’s most respected sides in recent years.
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