Fabio Capello scolds Charles De Ketelaere as Atalanta sinks

Under the lights of the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo, Charles De Ketelaere saw his influence fade on Thursday evening, as Atalanta, nicknamed the Red Devil, were beaten 2-0 by Ajax in the Conference League. The Belgian attacking midfielder, who arrived last summer, failed to create a chance and was substituted after 62 minutes.

Fabio Capello's criticisms

On the Sky Sport Italia set, Fabio Capello was asked about the player's shortcomings. « I don’t think about the goals he doesn’t score, but about the decisive actions he no longer carries out », said the legendary Italian coach.

Capello added that the problem was deeper than a simple lack of goals, stating « He is not a true scorer ». He recalled that De Ketelaere, formerly of Club Brugge, used to read his teammates’ runs better.

Since January, the Belgian has not scored a goal and has not made a difference in Amsterdam against Ajax. His substitution at halftime, in the 62nd minute, reflects the staff’s loss of confidence.

Capello delivers harsh criticism of De Ketelaere's dip at Atalanta

The former Real Madrid coach highlighted that De Ketelaere usually creates two to three big chances per game. Today, he sometimes produces only one and plays « constantly below the required tempo ».

Sky Sport gave De Ketelaere a rating of 4.5 out of 10 for the match. This assessment reflects the growing frustration around his performance.

Capello’s criticisms come at a crucial moment, with the player needing to work to regain his former level and become a decisive asset for Atalanta again.