Atalanta has been dealt a severe blow with the news that striker Gianluca Scamacca has suffered a major knee injury. The Italian forward sustained the injury during a friendly match against Parma, which Atalanta lost 4-1. Initial assessments confirmed the worst fears: Scamacca has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
The injury occurred when Scamacca attempted to control a ball in the opponent’s penalty area. His left knee buckled upon landing, causing him to collapse to the ground in visible pain. He was immediately substituted, with Charles De Ketelaere coming on in his place. Scamacca was unable to put any weight on his left leg as he left the field.
Atalanta released an official statement confirming the severity of the injury:
“After a clinical-specialist consultation by Professor Pierpaolo Mariani at the Villa Stuart Clinic in Rome, Gianluca Scamacca underwent diagnostic tests that revealed a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The player will undergo arthroscopic surgery performed by Professor Mariani this afternoon, Monday, August 5.”
Scamacca’s injury is a significant setback for both Atalanta and the Italian national team. The 24-year-old had been a key player for Atalanta, contributing 19 goals and 8 assists in 44 appearances last season, helping the team win the Europa League and secure qualification for the upcoming Champions League. His absence is expected to last at least six months, likely sidelining him until well into 2025.
The injury also poses a challenge for Atalanta’s transfer strategy. The club had invested €25 million plus bonuses to acquire Scamacca from West Ham in the summer of 2023. With his long-term absence, Atalanta may need to reassess their plans for the attacking lineup.
Additionally, the Italian national team will miss Scamacca’s presence, especially at a time when there is a scarcity of top-tier strikers. Coach Luciano Spalletti will need to find alternatives to fill the void left by Scamacca’s injury.
