As Arsenal prepare to take on Atalanta in the Champions League this week, Italian media has heaped praise on the Gunners, describing them as “one of the most beautiful and ambitious teams in the Premier League.”
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Arsenal’s style of play and title-chasing ambitions have caught the eye of European football observers, particularly as they gear up for a crucial encounter at the Gewiss Stadium.
Arsenal, who finished second behind Manchester City last season, have started their 2024/25 campaign in strong fashion, including a gritty 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby.
That result, earned with a steel rear-guard effort, highlights the defensive resolve and tactical flexibility that Mikel Arteta has instilled in his side.
It’s this balance of defensive solidity and attacking flair that has led Italian outlets like La Gazzetta to admire the club.
Lookman and De Ketelaere face Arsenal’s “wall”
For Atalanta, the challenge of facing Arsenal is a daunting one, and La Gazzetta dello Sport notes that the Italians will need to be at their very best to crack Arsenal’s formidable defence.
The article highlights the importance of Atalanta’s key attacking players, including Ademola Lookman and Charles De Ketelaere, who will be tasked with “polishing their talent” to break down the Gunners’ backline.
Both players are crucial for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side, with Lookman known for his pace and flair, and De Ketelaere for his creative vision and finishing. Between them, they have three goals and three assists this season.
However, it won’t be easy for Atalanta. Arsenal’s defensive unit, described as a “steel rear-guard,” has been difficult to breach.
Arteta’s team has conceded just two goals so far this season, and their compact organisation makes them a tough opponent for any side.
Arsenal’s attack: A nightmare for defences
Beyond their defensive strength, La Gazzetta also highlights the danger posed by Arsenal’s attacking trio of Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli.
These “space-eaters” are noted for their ability to move fluidly across the front line, creating space, dragging defenders out of position, and dropping deeper to build up play.
Arteta has built a team capable of not just defending resolutely but also launching rapid, precise counterattacks.
The attacking players are known for their high work rate, and La Gazzetta warns that Atalanta’s defence, which has shown moments of fragility, particularly in their recent match against Fiorentina, which they won 3-2, will need to stay focused to avoid being caught out by Arsenal’s dynamic forwards.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini, however, is not expected to lower his defensive line out of fear. He will likely adopt his usual attacking philosophy, pressing high and trying to unsettle Arsenal early on, though the risks of leaving spaces behind will be a concern.
The passion of Atalanta and European nights
La Gazzetta dello Sport also points out that Atalanta are no strangers to European success, having won the Europa League last season. Their victory has instilled further confidence in the team, who now feel at home on the European stage.
The piece emphasises how much Atalanta relish these nights under the lights in the Champions League, where their coach Gasperini’s “eyes shine” with anticipation for these big fixtures.
A clash of footballing philosophies
This match also represents a fascinating clash of footballing philosophies. On one side, there’s Arsenal’s blend of defensive solidity and dynamic, space-creating attacks under the leadership of Mikel Arteta.
On the other, Atalanta’s high-pressing, fluid style of play, orchestrated by Gasperini, who encourages his team to play with intensity and fearlessness.
While Atalanta will be hoping to capitalise on their home advantage, La Gazzetta notes that the Gunners are just as comfortable on the road, having yet to concede an away goal this season (and only three since the start of 2024). Arsenal’s consistency away from home has become a hallmark of their style, and it could play a crucial role in what is set to be a gripping European fixture.
