Atalanta Sack Ivan Juric After Disastrous Serie A Start

Atalanta Sack Ivan Juric: Struggles After Gasperini’s Legacy

Atalanta sack Ivan Juric just five months into his tenure following a disappointing run in Serie A that left the club far from European contention. Juric, who took over from the iconic Gian Piero Gasperini in June 2025, managed only two wins in 11 league games, unable to replicate the intensity and innovation that made Atalanta a force under his predecessor.

Juric’s Short Spell Ends After Sassuolo Defeat

Juric’s time at Atalanta came to an abrupt end after a heavy 3-0 home loss against Sassuolo. This defeat, which marked the club’s eighth consecutive league match without a victory, proved to be the final straw for the Bergamo board. Atalanta currently sit 13th in the Serie A table, 11 points adrift of leaders Inter Milan, a far cry from last season’s third-place finish. Juric’s spell has now become one of the shortest managerial stints in the club’s modern era.

Falling Short of Gasperini’s Remarkable Atalanta Standards

Appointed with the mandate to continue Gasperini’s transformative legacy, Juric struggled to establish the same attacking identity and tactical clarity. Under Gasperini, Atalanta were celebrated for their high-pressing 3-4-2-1 formation, relentless energy, and attacking flair. Gasperini’s nine-year spell saw Atalanta secure five Champions League qualifications, break records with a 98-goal Serie A season in 2019/20, and claim the club’s first major European trophy with the Europa League triumph in 2024.

Unfortunately, Juric’s Atalanta lacked the spark and cohesion that defined the Gasperini era. A series of six consecutive draws, followed by back-to-back defeats, highlighted deep tactical issues, notably a disjointed pressing system and frailties in defense. Players who once thrived looked short of confidence, and the club’s European ambitions quickly faded.

Official Statement and Search for a Successor

Atalanta confirmed Juric’s dismissal in an official statement, thanking him and his staff for their professionalism but acknowledging the urgent need for change ahead of the winter period. According to local reports, club officials had begun contingency planning during the international break and made their final decision immediately after the Sassuolo defeat.

Raffaele Palladino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Juric. The 41-year-old former Monza and Fiorentina coach is recognized as one of Italy’s most promising young tacticians. His approach, which blends disciplined structure with attacking ambition, aligns well with Atalanta’s footballing DNA. Palladino’s teams have been praised for aggressive pressing, tactical flexibility, and dynamic wing play—traits reminiscent of Gasperini’s philosophy.

Palladino’s Coaching Rise and Appeal to Atalanta

After starting his coaching career at Monza’s youth level, Palladino quickly impressed when promoted to first-team duties, leading Monza to a memorable debut win over Juventus and ensuring their Serie A survival. His subsequent switch to Fiorentina saw him guide the club to sixth place and a UEFA Conference League spot, earning respect for his tactical acumen and ability to inspire players.

Palladino’s commitment to a 3-4-2-1 formation, aggressive transitions, and width through wing-backs makes him a strong fit for Atalanta’s squad. The club hopes his arrival will reinvigorate key players such as Gianluca Scamacca, Ademola Lookman, and Teun Koopmeiners, restoring both confidence and their trademark attacking verve.

What’s Next for Atalanta?

With Atalanta preparing to face Napoli after the international break, stabilizing results and morale under new leadership is the immediate priority. The club remains determined to return to the top half of the Serie A table and challenge for European qualification, goals that will require a swift return to tactical discipline and attacking intensity. Palladino’s first challenges will be to reignite the team’s belief and reestablish the philosophy that brought so much success under Gasperini.

As for Ivan Juric, this latest dismissal continues a turbulent run of short-lived appointments in recent years, including brief and challenging spells at Roma and Southampton. His inability to fill Gasperini’s shoes in Bergamo underscores the difficulties of succeeding a club legend and maintaining high standards in an ever-competitive Serie A.

Opinion: Lessons from Atalanta’s Managerial Gamble

Juric’s tenure at Atalanta is a stark reminder of the risks that come with trying to maintain momentum after a golden era. Success under Gasperini set a daunting benchmark that few could match. For Atalanta, the immediate task is to rediscover their identity and competitive edge. If Palladino can channel the club’s best traditions while adding his own tactical nuance, Atalanta can yet reclaim their spot among Italy’s elite. Fans will be hoping for quick progress, but patience and unity will be key as the club enters this crucial new phase.

For more updates on Serie A and global football, visit for more news.