Edoardo Reja's Atalanta look to retain their Serie A place this season, beginning with Roberto Mancini's renovated Inter squad who are keen on all three points after struggling in the International Champions Cup and other preseason friendlies.
Inter are serious about a European awakening
Like Derby della Madonnina rivals AC Milan, Inter have not been the European superpower it once was since the illustrious treble under Jose Mourinho before the turn of the decade.
However, for Inter, this summer transfer window has opened up their checkbook and made various key signings in order to strengthen the side following their previous eighth place league campaign. Players including Stevan Jovetić, Geoffrey Kondogbia, João Miranda and Jeison Murillo have all entered the club and are set to make a big impact in the starting squad.
Inter only managed to win three matches of the eight they played in pre-season, with consistency at either side of the pitch not present. This was evident in matches like the 2-1 loss to AC Milan and 1-0 defeats to Bayern Munich, Galatasaray, and Sassuolo.
On the contrary, Atalanta just escaped relegation with a 17th place finish last season. Despite playing sub-par competition during their pre-season, Atalanta managed to remain unbeaten. This should add an extra boost of confidence to the side, even though the quality on the field remains the same with no drastic team changes. Slovenian Jasmin Kurtic brings new shape to the midfield after his €3.5 million move from Sassuolo.
Team News and Projected Lineups:
In order to fit in with financial fair play, Croatian international and exciting prospect Mateo Kovacic has signed for Real Madrid (€35 million fee).
With Jovetić just recently arriving, Argentinean international Rodrigo Palacio will likely start up front adjacent to Mauro Icardi.
Possible Inter Starting XI (4-3-1-2): Handanovic; Stanton, Murillo, Miranda, Jesus; Brozovic, Medel, Kondogbia; Hernanes; Icardi, Palacio.
Atalanta will remain almost exactly the same to how they finished last season, with the addition of the few replacements.
Possible Atalanta Starting XI (4-3-3): Sportiello; Raimondi, Masiello, Cherubin, Dramé; Kurtic, Roon, Carmona; Gomez, Denis, Moralez.
Player to Watch:
Mauro Icardi - The Argentinean striker has proven himself to be the attacking threat that can finish goals for Inter. In 33 appearances in all competitions last season, he produced 22 goals and six assists. It is no question the spotlight is on him to lift the team higher in the table while still gaining experience as a younger professional.
Maximiliano Moralez - A veteran inside the Atalanta squad, the 28-year-old Argentine produced five goals and four assists last season. His passing presence is significant, and will need to be aided by Kurtic and fellow midfielders if they want to reach the mid-table this season.
Final Prediction:
Although Inter had struggled to gain form during preseason, it is no question that the quality on the pitch is much greater for Mancini's side. Inter has been used to being in high scoring games recently last season, while Atalanta have drawn 5 of their last 6 away games. However, this should be an easy three points for Inter in the end. Inter 3-1 Atalanta