For the second season in a row, Atalanta play in the UEFA Champions League. The Nerazzurri were drawn in Group D together with Liverpool, Ajax and Midtjylland. President Antonio Percassi commented the draw.

President Percassi, it’s the second appearance for Atalanta in the Champions League and it’s the second consecutive one. Are the feelings always the same?

“Always the same, or even more, as repeating what we did last year would be amazing, unimaginable. We’re honoured and proud to be in the Champions League for the second time. Hopefully we make a good impression”.

Group D made of Liverpool, Ajax and Midtjylland, a Danish side. These will be our next opponents.

“It’s enough to give us sleepless nights. These are three tough teams, with an incredible history, they’re very strong. It’s exciting and incredible to think that we will see them play in Bergamo. Hopefully the fans will be able to attend as well”.

They’ve already asked you this question: Liverpool and Ajax are two teams that play good football and Atalanta are there.

“These will be important matches against sides that play excellent football. This is further experience for us, it’s like going to the University of Football. We must keep out feet on the ground, but if we play the way we have been doing recently, these will be entertaining games”.

President, what are the goals of Atalanta?

“Let’s hope we avoid relegation. First of all we must focus on the league. Our start was strong, but many other teams are doing well. It’s just the beginning. The sensations are positive, especially with a group of players that are really good, polite and with a strong bond with the team and the club and that’s fundamental for us. The first aim for us – I keep saying this – is to secure Serie A safety. Whatever comes next is awesome”.

You’ve been saying that since ever, so it’s fair to say that there’s a good dose of superstition in your words, aware of the value of this team and the club. However, as a good Bergamasco, your feet are well on the ground.

“Absolutely. If we lose this… I hear people talk about the ‘Scudetto’, but no way. Let’s behave like we have done so far, with the same spirit and mentality as always. Then if achievements, goals and results come, like, historically they’ve been all reached and beaten. More than this… I think it’d be beautiful if we managed to do that again”.

If these prestigious achievements came, Atalanta would not back out.

“Obviously. There’s much seriousness and determination, the group is improving. According to the coach, the team have strengthened. We have signed players with remarkable potential”.

President, another beautiful gift for the Bergamaschi, the Atalanta fans, for Bergamo: Atalanta in the Champions League.

“That’s a great gift, especially with a stadium, whose second stage has been completed. I’ve seen it and it’s beautiful. It’d be fantastic if there were fans”.

President, safety in Serie A, what about the Champions League? What’s the goal?

“Making it through the first round would be a great result”.