Mario Pasalic has become the example of patience and dedication that Atalanta wants to pass on to its players. The Croatian captain, who made his Champions League debut against Pafos, showed that the will to stay ready and not complain is key to earning the respect of the team and the fans.
Before arriving in Bergamo, Pasalic went through a period of uncertainty. With Sassuolo, Bologna and Roma he often only found time to warm up, without ever entering the pitch. He also found himself on the bench at Cagliari, with the hope of being able to play but without success. These experiences strengthened his determination not to give up and to continue working hard, even when opportunities seemed slim.
Since 2018, when he arrived at Atalanta, Pasalic has stood out for his work ethic. He has never been a player who complains about a lack of minutes. On the contrary, he has always shown a strong desire to improve, to help the team and to be ready to intervene when necessary. His role as a "balancer" in midfield was fundamental in the victory against Pafos, where he led the team with calm and determination.
Coach Maurizio Sarri recognized Pasalic's value, saying: "Mario, now it's your turn!". This sentence underlined the importance of a player who, despite not always being on the pitch, is ready to give his best when called upon. Pasalic's approach was also a model for the young people on the team, who learned to manage waiting without creating controversy.
Atalanta showed that they appreciated the leadership of Pasalic, who was one of the first to enter the pitch and the last to leave it, showing constant commitment. His example of patience and professionalism was a point of reference for the team, especially in moments of difficulty. With the season still underway, Pasalic will continue to lead his teammates, both on and off the field, showing what it means to be a true captain.