Sarri confirms Scalvini will likely miss Milan clash as Atalanta prepare for Paphos
Scalvini doubtful for Milan as Sarri looks ahead to Paphos
Maurizio Sarri admits Giorgio Scalvini will likely miss Atalanta's next Serie A match against Milan, but the Atalanta coach is looking forward to a reunion with his former Chelsea player, David Luiz, when the Bergamo side host Paphos in the Conference League.
Injury update on Scalvini
Giorgio Scalvini and Raoul Bellanova were both substituted during Monday's 3-1 Serie A win over Venezia. Sarri gave a quick update on the centre-back in an interview with Sky Sport Italia.
"Scalvini's injury isn't too serious, but he needs a few days of rest and will probably miss the game against Milan too," he admitted.
"What matters now is that everyone is involved and that as many players as possible get playing time."
Concerns over the football schedule
Speaking at his press conference on Wednesday, Sarri criticised the demands of the fixture calendar. "For the moment, we haven't been properly trained. This is modern football," he said, as reported by TMW. "When you play three games in six days, you need to adapt because you don't have much time. I don't think this type of football is too appealing. I feel the same way as the Curvas. We must be as ready as possible for the next match. We'll see who will play. We are making assessments."
Tough test against Paphos
Sarri warned that Paphos will be a difficult opponent. "I expect a tough game. In Italy, medium-sized and small teams have improved dramatically, and the same is happening in Europe," he said. "They are a good team that came close to qualifying for the Round of 16. They have great technical values, with Portuguese and Brazilian players who are great on the ball."
Reunion with David Luiz
The Cyprus-based club is captained by David Luiz, 39, who played under Sarri at Chelsea. He scored three goals and provided two assists in 50 appearances for the London club, helping them win the Europa League in the 2018-19 season.
"He's an extraordinary lad and such a strong player," Sarri told Sky. "Beyond being a player, he has enormous depth as a person. I'm fond of him and remember him fondly. I saw him as someone who loves football, so I imagined he would play for a long time."
Carnesecchi praised
Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi joined Sarri at the press conference, and the coach joked about the Italian's versatility. "The problem is that I can't play him in central midfield," he said, smiling. "He's a player with great personality, the potential to make the difference, and broad shoulders. It's not a burden for him; it's a great source of motivation."