Percassi on Atalanta fan power in Coppa Italia and Gasperini tears

“We know how much this game is worth and are happy to play it in front of our fans with a passionate atmosphere,” Percassi told Sport Mediaset.

“The fans have an impact, but on the field is a very strong opponent that already proved it on Saturday by beating Napoli. We hope to do well.”

Atalanta famously have one of the best youth academies in Italian football, regularly churning out talents, and more are waiting in the wings.

“We already have quite a few youth products in the first team, we hope more will make that step soon. There is certainly talent in our youth academy, and I am convinced there are strong foundations for Italian football to become competitive again at an international level.”

ROME, ITALY – APRIL 18: Donyell Malen of AS Roma is challenged by Berat Djimsiti of Atalanta during the Serie A match between AS Roma and Atalanta BC at Stadio Olimpico on April 18, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Isak Hien is the only injury absentee, as Charles De Ketelaere, Giorgio Scalvini and Sead Kolasinac all shook off knocks, but Nikola Krstovic is again preferred to Gianluca Scamacca.

Although Atalanta are still in the running for Europe via Serie A positions, winning the Coppa Italia would guarantee Europa League qualification, as well as a trophy.

They won the Coppa Italia in 1963, but lost the Final in 1987, 1996, 2019, 2021 and 2024.

ROME, ITALY – MARCH 22: Gian Piero Gasperini, Head Coach of AS Roma, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AS Roma and US Lecce at Stadio Olimpico on March 22, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images)

Percassi was asked for his reaction when he saw Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini break down in tears when talking about his bond with Antonio Percassi, the President of Atalanta and Luca’s father.

“We had some very special moments together, nine extraordinary years, so naturally when going back over some stories, the emotions take over. Unfortunately, football doesn’t give you time for that, so we are very concentrated on the present and the future.”