Guglielmo Stendardo “always hoped to return” to Atalanta and took a pay cut to make that dream happen.

The 31-year-old defender spent the last six months on loan in Bergamo, but made the move permanent by signing a three-season deal at lower wages than he received at Lazio.

“I always hoped to return to Atalanta,” he said at his presentation Press conference.

“I am back at a professional and well-organised club in a unique atmosphere where it’s possible to do well.

“Now we must forget the past, because that doesn’t count in football. I am convinced Atalanta are a strong side with a precise identity. That, of course, is thanks to the great work of Coach Stefano Colantuono.

“An even more difficult season awaits us, as the newly-promoted sides are of a very high level.”

Serie A now includes Sampdoria, Torino and Pescara, while Atalanta have a two-point penalty due to the betting scandal.

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