Former Bayern Munich striker and Italy World Cup champion Luca Toni has cautioned the Bavarian club against underestimating Atalanta in their impending Champions League Round of 16 fixture. Toni emphasizes that any complacency could pose a significant risk for the German giants.
The first leg of the highly anticipated Champions League last-16 tie between Atalanta and Bayern Munich is scheduled to take place in Bergamo on Tuesday, March 10.
Toni’s Warning to Bayern Regarding Atalanta
Bayern Munich is widely considered a top contender for the Champions League title this season, and they are largely expected to advance to the quarter-finals, where they would potentially face the winner of the Manchester City versus Real Madrid tie.
However, Atalanta has already demonstrated their ability to surprise European football powerhouses this season, particularly when playing at home in Bergamo. Notable victims at the New Balance Arena in earlier Champions League stages include Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund.
“On paper, Bayern possesses a far stronger squad than Atalanta. However, La Dea boasts talented players and exhibits excellent football, especially in the Champions League, under the guidance of Raffaele Palladino,” commented Toni, who previously played for both Bayern Munich and Fiorentina.
“The coach has successfully transformed the team’s mindset. I understand that Juric did not maintain a strong relationship with the squad, but Palladino has effectively restored a positive atmosphere within the team, reminiscent of Gasperini’s tenure.”
Since Palladino took over from Juric in early November, Atalanta has secured 15 victories from 26 matches.
Bayern Munich will travel to Bergamo without their injured goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, though star striker Harry Kane is expected to be available after missing Friday’s Bundesliga game against Borussia Monchengladbach.
“The outcome is largely in their hands. If they perform to their capabilities, Bayern are undoubtedly the favorites. They have truly fantastic players,” Toni added.
“Nevertheless, they absolutely must not underestimate Atalanta, who approach this stage with immense confidence and pride. This match represents a monumental occasion for Atalanta, and any casual approach from Bayern would be perilous.”
Atalanta hopes that midfielder Ederson will be fit for Tuesday’s match, having been sidelined for their last five games due to injury.
“Ederson is truly one of the most ‘European’ players, one of the best,” Toni concluded. “We’ll see who starts in attack, but Atalanta’s strength lies in its collective spirit, with every player contributing.”
During his two seasons at Bayern Munich, Luca Toni netted an impressive 58 goals in 89 appearances.
His playing career highlights include winning a Bundesliga title and the German Cup with Bayern in the 2007-08 season. With the Italian national team, he was a vital part of the squad that won the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Toni also achieved the Serie A top goalscorer award twice: in 2005-06 with 31 goals and again in 2014-15 with 22 goals, sharing the honor with Mauro Icardi.
