Atalanta-Inter is the derby ‘nerazzurro’, but it is also a chance for Alejandro Gomez to reunite with some old Argentine friends. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport: ‘I know every Argentine at Inter. Banega just got to Italy, he’s about to find out the incredible combination of City, Stadium and fans here in Bergamo. Is he struggling? It’s not easy to get settled in Serie A, far from what La Liga represents: He will need time. As for Carrizo, we have a good friendship after having played together in Catania. Icardi? Everyone can do as they wish, but his book shows lack of experience. He’s their captain, he is supposed to be an example. Palacio? If Paletta was still at Atalanta Palacio would be with us now, they are like brothers. Paletta had almost convinced him’.
Never having been called up by an Argentine coach, Gomez gives his availability to the Italian national team: ‘I played for Argentina in the U16’s,17’s and U20’s, but never for the first team. I’ll have Italian citizenship in May and Ventura told me if I do well, he will consider me’.
Now as a leader for Atalanta: ‘An honor. Anytime veterans like Raimondi or Carmona don’t play, I represent loyalty here. The likes of Cigarini, Paletta, De Roon, Diamanti and Borriello all left, it’s up to me to lead the youngsters. The fans love me, and the captains armband is an added motivation’.
Plenty of potential among Atalanta youngsters: ‘There’s plenty of quality among them. Petagna was a surprise with great technique. Caldara radiates calmness. Kessie has incredible physical strength. If I were in their shoes, I’d gain some experience before making the jump to a big team. Objectives? Atalanta fans dream of European competitions, but it’s one of those things that requires thinking step by step. Before our match against Crotone we were subpar, now apparently we’re great: We need more balance. Personally I’m hoping to get 10 goals’. Gomez urges his teammates to make the best of Inter’s struggles: ‘They’re going through a rough patch, it’s an incredible chance. A tie can help give continuity, but a point doesn’t change much for us. For that reason I wouldn’t sign for a draw, I want to take my chances’.
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