Atalanta Manager Marino: “Europa League? For Us, It’s Like Winning the League Title”

Atalanta general manager Umberto Marino says qualifying for the Europa League or Champions League is like winning a title for La Dea. Speaking after the UEFA Europa League draw, in which Atalanta will face last seasons opponents Sporting, Marino shared his thoughts on the Portuguese side and what he expects from the tie:

“We know them, and they know us. They are undoubtedly a high-value opponent. Sporting is a team with great international experience, and we could never underestimate them. We look forward to this great match and consider advancing the first leg.”

The Nerazzurri’s general manager then discussed the draw: “In this draw for the round of 16, there are many strong and competitive squads with a great European history, which could have easily been in the Champions League.”

Marino then focused on Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta: “Our work is the result of the club’s idea, then we have a master of football on the bench and a very high-level youth sector. There is a great sharing of ideals with the territory and the city, which certainly helps us grow.” Finally, a comment on Europe: “For us, reaching Europe, whether it’s the Conference League or the Champions League, is like winning a league title. Being able to represent Bergamo around the world is a source of great satisfaction and motivation to always do better.”