Sarri keeps private views as Atalanta brace for Hapoel Tel‑Aviv clash

Maurizio Sarri, head coach of Atalanta, has kept his private thoughts under wraps as the Italian side gear up for a tense Conference League play‑off against Israeli club Hapoel Tel‑Aviv, with the first leg set for Thursday at 19.30 UK time in Bergamo’s New Balance Arena.

The encounter will be played at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, with kickoff scheduled for 19.30 UK time (20.30 CEST). Both clubs know that preliminary rounds have historically proved tricky for Italian sides, prompting Atalanta to tailor their preparation.

Security and political backdrop

Inevitably, an extraordinary level of security will be deployed, expecting around 1,000 visiting fans and extra checks on all entrants. Organisers have banned Palestinian flags or banners to avoid tension, while a protest is slated for 17.00 UK time (18.00 CEST) in the city. The ban aims to prevent tensions linked to the broader Israel‑Palestine situation.

The match also carries weight for Atalanta’s European ambitions, as progressing would keep their Conference League hopes alive and could boost morale ahead of the Serie A season. The city recently saw AC Milan play at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, underscoring the region’s football infrastructure.

Sarri’s diplomatic stance and squad news

When pressed about calls to exclude Israeli clubs from UEFA competitions, Sarri replied, “I am here as a representative of a club, and as a professional, I must face every game that we are scheduled to play with the objective of victory.” He added that private thoughts would have to be asked “in private.”

Sarri described Hapoel Tel‑Aviv as a tough side with dangerous counter‑attacks, noting they are better than many might suggest. He stressed that Atalanta must be aware of their capabilities and adapt their approach for this test.

Atalanta also face absences, with Charles De Ketelare and Honest Ahanor still sidelined after pre‑season injuries, while Kamaldeen Sulemana remains out for a couple of months due to a long‑term issue. The club hopes the missing players will be ready for the Serie A opener against Sassuolo.