In the opening round of Serie A, Atalanta defeated Sassuolo 2-1 at home to make a winning start to the new season. After the match, coach Sarri praised the team’s performance while highlighting areas for improvement, particularly defensive intensity and attacking organization.

"This was undoubtedly an important victory. For the first 30 minutes, we were composed and didn’t face too many threats, but then we came under pressure defensively. We especially need to integrate our new signings better. De Ketelaere only joined on August 4th, and the other new arrivals joined recently as well. We need to continue observing them for now."

Atalanta took an early lead when Raspadori scored in the sixth minute, before Krstovic added a second in the 65th minute to secure a 2-1 victory. Sarri praised the midfield’s solid performance but noted that the team became overly passive at times.

"The midfield played very well for 90 minutes, but we were too passive in that area. The first 30 minutes were certainly played at a high level. I also want to specifically mention Samardzic—he performed very well."

Regarding the team's tactical approach, Sarri stressed that Atalanta must avoid sitting too deep: "Our team becomes passive when our formation drops back, and we need to improve in the offensive phase. If we start defending passively in a low block, we'll have problems, and sometimes we don't press high enough either."

Regarding the wingers' performance, Sarri felt the team had improved: "I think they're in better shape, and Zalewski is also more proactive. They'll be a great help to us. We're more threatening than before."

Sarri also praised Raspadori's performance: "He's a very talented player who worked hard as a forward during pre-season. Tonight, in addition to scoring, he also defended at a high level."

Sarri also singled out Pasalic’s professionalism: “Pasalic is a true professional with exceptional dedication. I knew him from my time at Chelsea, when he was on loan, and he has since enjoyed an excellent career in Bergamo.”

Regarding new signing Elmas, Sarri said the team still needs to assess his condition: “We gave him about 15 minutes of playing time, and we’ll conduct various tests to see how much further he can develop.”

Following its first league win, Atalanta now faces the Europa Conference League play-off. The team drew 0-0 with Hapoel Tel Aviv in the first leg, with the second leg to be played at a neutral venue in Miskolc, Hungary.

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