Article by Elliott Martin
When Atalanta lost four of their first six games a European spot wouldn’t have even crossed their minds, survival in Serie A was the key although the youthfulness of the side showed great promise. Ahead of matchday seven Alejandro Gomez, known by many adoring fans as Papu Gomez, was handed the captaincy by the recently appointed Gian Piero Gasperini. Gasperini’s faith in the 5’5” forward was to pay dividends, his leadership qualities on and off the pitch unifying a diverse squad and pushing forward a growing sense of togetherness; In 25 Serie A games with Gomez as captain the club has only lost on four occasions.
Alejandro Gomez has been a catalyst for development in both of his Serie A spells; first at Catania where the club equalled their best ever finish in the top flight and now at Atalanta who have broken their highest ever points tally. He may be diminutive in stature but Gomez’s impact on the Bergamasque club is irrefutable, not only does he don the captains armband but he also wears his heart on his sleeve.
His direct, creative style of play mixes excellently with a strong work ethic. His small size matches strangely with great balance, strength and a determination which emanates throughout the side. Speed and inventiveness make up his attacking attributes whilst his movement this season has seen marked improvement. As well as making him captain Gasperini also shifted Gomez into a more central position, often playing just off the frontman Andrea Petagna. Gomez spent most of his first two seasons at Atalanta as a left midfielder therefore drifts effectively into potent positions on the wing allowing him time and space to cross or dribble, both of which he excels. His dribbling often sees him beat his man or win free kicks, which he takes himself.
His link up play with young teammates has spread throughout the team, players are patient with one another and respectful of each others playing style. Gomez’s attributes make him adept at playing in a variety of systems and in different ways. His pace and running make him a substantial threat on the counter attack whilst his controlled short passing and crisp technique also sees him capable of patient build up.
Alejandro Gomez is the undisputed leader in the Atalanta squad, leading the way in terms of minutes played, goals scored, assists, key passes per game and dribbles per game. The creative hub of an energetic side the 29-year-old has scored more goals this season, with fourteen to his name, than he has the previous two combined. How far Atalanta go is up to them but one thing remains, the impact Alejandro Gomez has had on this Atalanta season has been noted far and wide.
