Atalanta vs Inter is set to hinge on a key midfield battle involving Hakan Calhanoglu, with Italian media highlighting how Palladino and his La Dea side could adapt their structure to limit the Nerazzurri regista’s influence.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the engines of the two sides are clear.

Ederson provides Atalanta with relentless box-to-box energy.

Meanwhile, Nicolò Barella acts as Inter’s hidden conductor.

Although Barella is not deployed as a classic playmaker, his output tells a different story.

He has already produced 39 key passes this season, effectively functioning as a secondary regista alongside Hakan Calhanoglu.

Atalanta Vs Inter – Palladino Plan To Counter Calhanoglu

Raffaele Palladino Fiorentina
FLORENCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 6: Head coach Raffaelel Palladino manager of ACF Fiorentina reacts during the Serie A match between Fiorentina and FC Internazionale at Stadio Artemio Franchi on February 6, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

In recent years, Atalanta have often accepted a numerical disadvantage in midfield when facing Inter.

Indeed, typically lining up in a 3-4-2-1 against Inter’s 3-5-2.

That approach has relied on intensity and man-oriented pressing rather than structural balance.

This time, however, Raffaele Palladino could opt for a different solution.

La Gazzetta suggests that introducing Mario Pasalic into central areas would allow Atalanta to better screen Calhanoglu.

Therefore disrupting Inter’s build-up at its source.

By crowding the central lanes and forcing quicker decisions, Atalanta aim to reduce the time Calhanoglu and Barella have on the ball.

If successful, it could shift the balance of the contest.

And, therefore, limit Inter’s ability to dictate tempo in Bergamo.