Atalanta are on their way to make their debuts in Europa after 26 years of absence. There's emotion in the air for everyone, from the fans to the players and the board. Not for Bryan Cristante though. At 22, he already has played in Europe: he started at 16 with Milan's shirt. He then repeated the experience with Benfica: two two clubs at the age of 20 then highs and lows with Palermo and Pescara before he met with Gasperini.
"I got at Bergamo after some negative experiences, - has told the midfielder to La Gazzetta dello Sport - I told myself that it was enough, it should be my year and I couldn't make mistakes again". He's respected his intentions: "Gasperini has been fundamental for my growth. He wants me to go into the spaces alternately with the other midfielder. Goals? I didn't think I would make that many. When you feel confident, you feel safer and you'll succeed important things though. The Mister still repeats to me that I should stay low...".
"The draw has been a little unfortunate, some people were disappointed getting both Lyon and Everton. Facing big teams is stimulant though. Hearing Rooney's name makes some kind of effect... Beside that, we know we'll face a great team, at the top of the Premier League for years. We're studying them. It's too bad we won't play in our stadium after so many years waiting to play in Europe. I'm sure our fans will still meet our expectations".
