Raspadori Injury: Atalanta Face New Attacking Concerns | Serie A

Atalanta forward Giacomo Raspadori suffered a flexor muscle injury during Saturday’s 2-0 Serie A victory over Lazio, forcing the team to play the final minutes a man down after exhausting their substitutions.

The injury occurred late in the match, with Atalanta already leading, and left coach Raffaele Palladino unable to replace the 25-year-old attacker. Raspadori, who joined Atalanta during the January transfer window, was subbed on for Samardzic at the start of the second half but was forced to leave the pitch in the 88th minute, according to reports from DAZN.

The injury adds to Palladino’s concerns, as Charles De Ketelaere is already sidelined with a meniscus injury that will keep him out for several weeks. The extent of Raspadori’s injury is currently unknown, though further tests are planned to determine the severity.

Palladino dismissed suggestions that his substitutions were influenced by the upcoming Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, stating, “I have never done turnover, I don’t believe in it. I am fortunate to have twenty strong players and whoever plays manages to express themselves.”

The club has not yet provided a timeline for Raspadori’s recovery, leaving his availability for the crucial Champions League playoff match against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday, February 17th, in doubt.