Sarri: I’ve Dismantled Atalanta’s Old Way of Playing, Time Is No Longer an Excuse

FolioPitch.com – 07 October 2026 | Maurizio Sarri has issued a stark warning to his Atalanta squad, declaring that Sarri I ve dismantled Atalanta s old way of playing time is no longer an excuse. The coach, who took over in the summer, has overseen a turbulent start to the season, with two wins followed by three defeats. Ahead of Monday’s clash with bottom-placed Venezia, Sarri spoke to Corriere di Bergamo, emphasizing the need for immediate improvement.

Atalanta currently sit 11th in Serie A with six points and just five goals scored. Sarri admitted that the transition from the club’s previous style has been challenging. “At Atalanta I found players used to achieving great results in a certain way, and I’ve deconstructed that way of playing,” he said. “I understand there’s a bit of confusion, but the team just needs to get going. The more we play, the more natural it will all become.”

The coach’s comments highlight a significant tactical shift. Under previous management, Atalanta were known for their high-intensity, attacking football. Sarri, however, is implementing his own philosophy, which requires time and patience. Yet, he insists that time is no longer a valid excuse. “Against Venezia I want to see us play football,” he stated. “I’ll say it clearly: time is no longer an excuse.”

Goals have been a major concern, with only five scored in six games. Sarri demands more from his attacking players, including Charles De Ketelaere, who reportedly wants to play as a centre-forward. “Certainly everyone up front has to improve their attacking output,” Sarri said. “From the trequarti forward, the attackers need to take more initiative to make the difference. From Rowe, as well as help in the defensive phase, I expect him to play like a bucking horse up front.”

On De Ketelaere’s desire to play centrally, Sarri joked, “Maybe I’ll lock him in a room with Scamacca and Krstovic, and whoever comes out alive can play centre-forward! I’m joking, obviously. As soon as he’s back I’ll talk to him and we’ll work out what other position we can find for him. But I certainly can’t abandon Scamacca and Krstovic.”

Despite the poor run, Sarri remains confident in his squad’s potential. “For now we’re in no-man’s land, but I remain sure that ours is a competitive squad, one worthy of fighting for Europe,” he said. “So far, though, we haven’t shown we deserve it, and that’s a regret. We have to play football and overcome our fears. We need to take a step forward and stop ‘walking on eggshells’, as I say. Then we’ll only have tactical errors left, and those can be fixed with a couple of training sessions.”

The upcoming match against Venezia presents a golden opportunity for Atalanta to return to winning ways. Venezia are the only team in Serie A without a point, and Sarri will expect his players to dominate. However, the coach is aware that confidence is fragile. “I hope the break has done everyone good,” he said. “Against Venezia I want to see us play football.”

Sarri’s revolution at Atalanta is still in its early stages, but the pressure is mounting. The coach has made it clear that Sarri I ve dismantled Atalanta s old way of playing time is no longer an excuse for any shortcomings. The players must adapt quickly to his methods, or risk falling further behind in the race for European qualification.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Sarri and his ability to reshape Atalanta into a team capable of competing at the highest level. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether his bold approach pays off. For now, the message is clear: the time for excuses is over. Sarri I ve dismantled Atalanta s old way of playing time is no longer an excuse – and the players must respond on the pitch.

In conclusion, Sarri’s tenure at Atalanta is a work in progress, but the coach is demanding immediate results. With Venezia up next, the team has a chance to kickstart their season. Whether they can rise to the challenge remains to be seen, but Sarri’s resolve is unwavering. The old way is gone; a new era must begin now.