Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has recalled his ‘fantastic’ pursuit of Champions League football with Genoa ahead of facing them this weekend.
Gasperini’s Genoa were only denied a place in the 2009-10 Champions League due to their inferior head-to-head record with Fiorentina.
His Atalanta side welcome the Grifone to Sassuolo’s Mapei Stadium on Sunday, with both teams having very different objectives to play for.
Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has recalled his ‘fantastic’ pursuit of Champions League football with Genoa ahead of facing them this weekend.
Gasperini’s Genoa were only denied a place in the 2009-10 Champions League due to their inferior head-to-head record with Fiorentina.
His Atalanta side welcome the Grifone to Sassuolo’s Mapei Stadium on Sunday, with both teams having very different objectives to play for.
“At this point of the season, I would’ve preferred to face another team…” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“It’s a football game that pits two teams with different but equally-important objectives.
“Going for fourth with Genoa was fantastic. Only our head-to-head with Fiorentina prevented us from entering the Champions League. I hope that doesn’t happen again this season.
“I’ve been experiencing unique emotions in Bergamo for three years running. Those who talk about plans for the future now mean they no longer have objectives, but we still have them.”
The 61-year-old has spent his entire career in Italy, but does he harbour ambitions of moving abroad?
“I’ve always refused offers from abroad, not so much for reasons related to work but rather lifestyle. I’m fine in Italy.”