Marco Carnesecchi, Atalanta goalkeeper, commented on the expectation of a successful season ahead of the Conference League debut against Pafos. In an interview broadcast by Sky Sports, the defender underlined that expectations are high both within the team and outside, and that the European competition is considered very important. “Tomorrow will be crucial because with the first phase like this we cannot wait for the finals,” he declared, highlighting the need to start on the right foot.
The goalkeeper then spoke about his approach to the match against Pafos, calling the opponent a "great physical appearance" and warning that there are no simple matches in Europe. “We will have to be ready,” he added, reiterating the importance of meticulous preparation. In particular, he highlighted how the four-line defense is a change that requires continuous work: "My job is always to save as much as possible, but the coach also asks me to build from the bottom, without risks. My feet are improving and I'm working a lot with the team on this aspect, so that I can also serve coach Mancini in the national team."
Carnesecchi then recalled the first flashes of "Atalanta" which appeared already during the match against Venezia, a result which confirmed Sarri's technical direction. “We are not at our best at the moment, but with Venezia the first signs of our identity have already been noticed,” he explained. He also asked himself what would change with the back four, replying that its role remains that of blocking threats, but with a more active role in building the game.
The goalkeeper closed the interview with a personal note, rejecting the idea of a "night without a vote" and reiterating his desire to always be present on the pitch: "Absolutely not, I like to take center stage." With their debut in the Conference League imminent, Atalanta is preparing to test its defense and demonstrate that it is an excellent candidate in this European competition.