Giuntoli Assures Atalanta Keeping Carnesecchi and Ahanor, Defends Fairness in Palestra Deal

FolioPitch.com – 15 July 2026 | In a comprehensive press conference, newly appointed Atalanta director Cristiano Giuntoli addressed the club’s transfer strategy, confirming that goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi and defender Honest Ahanor will remain with the club under new coach Maurizio Sarri. The statement reinforces the club’s commitment to retaining its top talents amid Premier League interest. Giuntoli also hit back at Inter’s accusations regarding Marco Palestra’s move to Chelsea, insisting that Atalanta acted fairly throughout the negotiations. The keyword ‘Giuntoli Atalanta keeping Carnesecchi and Ahanor we were fair on Palestra’ encapsulates the core themes of the director’s remarks.

Giuntoli, who previously held senior roles at Napoli and Juventus, emphasized that La Dea have no intention of dismantling their squad. ‘We want to keep our jewels,’ he said, directly referencing the offers for Ahanor from English clubs. ‘There are many rumours around, but we do not want to sell anyone. Carnesecchi will remain with Atalanta, and we are certain this group can do well.’ The assurance comes after intense speculation linking both players with moves abroad, particularly after Ahanor’s impressive performances in Serie A.

The most contentious issue discussed was the transfer of wing-back Marco Palestra to Chelsea for a reported €50 million plus add-ons. Inter Milan had accused Atalanta and the player’s agent of breaking a prior agreement. Giuntoli firmly denied any wrongdoing: ‘Everyone was fully aware of everything that went on. Palestra went to a big club and will represent Italy abroad. We were perfectly fair and correct with all parties.’ He reiterated that Atalanta’s handling of the deal was transparent, and the club remains satisfied with their right-side options, including Raoul Bellanova and Davide Zappacosta.

Giuntoli also touched on the arrival of midfielder Gianluca Gaetano and the club’s ongoing interest in Bosnian talent Kerim Alajbegovic. While he declined to comment directly on the latter, he noted that Atalanta are always alert for market opportunities. The director praised newly appointed coach Maurizio Sarri, stating that his clear identity and style of play align perfectly with the squad’s quality. ‘Sarri has a very clear identity and style of play, so we are convinced this squad has a lot of quality he can draw on, including in the youth academy.’

The press conference highlighted Atalanta’s determination to build on their recent successes. Giuntoli emphasized that the club’s project is unique: ‘When you see Atalanta from the outside, you can’t help but fall in love with this project. It has a youth academy that is the envy of the world, there are people here who truly understand football. I accepted in a second when they approached me.’

In conclusion, Giuntoli’s statements reaffirm Atalanta’s ambition to retain their core players while navigating transfer controversies. The director’s transparent approach regarding Carnesecchi and Ahanor, combined with his strong defense of the Palestra deal, signals a new era of stability under Sarri. Fans can expect a competitive squad that blends emerging talents with experienced performers. The narrative of ‘Giuntoli Atalanta keeping Carnesecchi and Ahanor we were fair on Palestra’ will likely dominate headlines as the season approaches.