Atalanta consider Sarri among options for post-Gasperini era | OneFootball

Atalanta are considering potential successors for Gian Piero Gasperini, as the long-serving coach recently admitted he could leave the club at the end of the season.

After nearly nine years in charge, the uncertainty regarding the Italian tactician’s future prompted La Dea to explore options for a managerial transition.

BERGAMO, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of Atalanta, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta and Torino at Gewiss Stadium on February 01, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images)

Atalanta line up candidates for post-Gasperini era: Sarri and De Zerbi on La Dea’s shortlist

According to Calciomercato.com, Atalanta have identified three primary candidates, with Maurizio Sarri emerging as a strong contender.

Lazio head coach Maurizio Sarri writes notes before the UEFA Champions League last 16 first leg between Lazio and Bayern Munich at the Olympic stadium on February 14, 2024 in Rome. (Photo by Filippo MONTEFORTE / AFP) (Photo by FILIPPO MONTEFORTE/AFP via Getty Images)

The former Napoli, Juventus, and Lazio boss is renowned for his tactical philosophy, which could align well with Atalanta’s attacking identity. Sarri is currently without a club after parting ways with Lazio and could be open to a return to Serie A.

Raffaele Palladino has also attracted significant attention for his work at Monza and Fiorentina.

The 40-year-old coach has impressed with his ability to develop young talent and implement an organised, modern playing style, making him a highly credible candidate to succeed a coach he reportedly considers one of his key influences. Interestingly, the current Viola boss once played under him at Genoa.

BRADFORD, ENGLAND – AUGUST 3: Roberto De Zerbi manager of Olympique Marseille during the pre-season friendly match between Sunderland and Olympique Marseille at University of Bradford Stadium on August 3, 2024 in Bradford, England. (Photo by Nigel Roddis/Getty Images)

Among Italian managers, Olympique Marseille’s Roberto De Zerbi could also be an intriguing option for the job, with his offensive football philosophy having already earned him widespread admiration internationally. However, his past ties with rivals Brescia could make his integration in Bergamo particularly challenging.

Ivan Juric, another of Gasperini’s disciples, is also considered a potential candidate, alongside Igor Tudor and Ralf Rangnick. The latter is reportedly seen as a particularly exciting option by Atalanta’s owners, who view him as the ideal figure to further internationalise the club.