Atalanta BC Defenders 2024/25
Atalanta BC, the pride of Bergamo, has long been celebrated for its attacking flair and dynamic style of play. However, the club’s defensive unit has been equally instrumental in their recent successes, providing the foundation for their relentless attacking endeavors. As the 2024/25 season unfolds, Atalanta’s backline boasts a blend of seasoned veterans, emerging talents, and shrewd acquisitions. This post delves into the defenders who form the backbone of La Dea’s squad, exploring their backgrounds, strengths, and contributions to the team.
1. Rafael Tolói
Rafael Tolói, the Brazilian stalwart, continues to be a pillar of Atalanta’s defense. Born in Glória d’Oeste, Brazil, Tolói joined the club in 2015 from São Paulo, where he had already established himself as a reliable center-back. 
Atalanta defender” width=”300″ height=”168″ />His transfer fee of €3.5 million now seems like a bargain, given his consistent performances over the years. Tolói’s leadership on the pitch is unmatched, often marshaling the defense with his composure and tactical intelligence. Standing at 6’1”, he excels in aerial duels and possesses a knack for timely interceptions. His ability to play out from the back aligns perfectly with Atalanta’s progressive style. Now in his mid-thirties, Tolói remains a vital figure, blending experience with unwavering commitment.
2. Berat Djimsiti
Berat Djimsiti, the Albanian international, has been a mainstay in Atalanta’s defense since his arrival in 2016. Hailing from Zurich, Switzerland, Djimsiti began his career at FC Zurich before moving to Olympiacos, where he caught the attention of Atalanta’s scouts. Signed for €2.5 million, he has since evolved into one of Serie A’s most dependable defenders. Djimsiti’s versatility allows him to operate as a center-back or left-back, offering tactical flexibility to the manager. His physicality and reading of the game make him a formidable opponent for any striker. Djimsiti’s calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to contribute to set-pieces, both defensively and offensively, further enhance his value to the team.
3. Giorgio Scalvini
Giorgio Scalvini represents the future of Atalanta’s defense. The Italian prodigy, born in Chiari, Lombardy, has risen through the ranks of Atalanta’s esteemed youth academy. Scalvini made his senior debut in 2021 and has since cemented his place in the starting lineup. At just 20 years old, he displays maturity beyond his years, combining technical proficiency with physical dominance. Standing at 6’3”, Scalvini is a commanding presence in the air and excels in one-on-one situations. His ability to read the game and initiate attacks from deep positions has drawn comparisons to some of Italy’s greatest defenders. Scalvini’s rapid ascent is a testament to Atalanta’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
4. Sead Kolašinac
Sead Kolašinac, the Bosnian international, brings a wealth of experience to Atalanta’s defensive unit. Born in Karlsruhe, Germany, Kolašinac began his career at VfB Stuttgart before making a name for himself at Schalke 04. His move to Arsenal in 2017 marked a significant step in his career, and he later joined Atalanta in 2023 on a free transfer. Kolašinac’s versatility allows him to play as a left-back or center-back, providing depth and adaptability to the squad. Known for his physicality and tenacity, he is a tough tackler and a reliable presence in defensive transitions. Kolašinac’s leadership and experience have been invaluable, particularly in high-stakes matches.
5. Isak Hien
Isak Hien, the Swedish defender, joined Atalanta in 2023 from Hellas Verona for a fee of €8 million. Born in Stockholm, Hien began his career at Djurgårdens IF before moving to Italy, where he quickly established himself as a promising talent. Standing at 6’2”, Hien is known for his athleticism and ability to cover ground quickly. His aggressive style of play and willingness to engage in physical battles make him a challenging opponent for attackers. Hien’s distribution from the back has also improved significantly, aligning with Atalanta’s emphasis on building play from deep. At 24 years old, he represents a blend of youth and experience, with his best years still ahead of him.
6. Matteo Ruggeri
Matteo Ruggeri, another product of Atalanta’s youth academy, has emerged as a key figure in the squad. The Italian left-back, born in Lodi, Lombardy, made his senior debut in 2020 and has since developed into a reliable option on the flank. Ruggeri’s pace and technical ability make him a constant threat in attack, while his defensive awareness ensures he is not caught out of position. His ability to deliver precise crosses and link up with midfielders adds an extra dimension to Atalanta’s play. Ruggeri’s progress has been steady, and at 22 years old, he is poised to become one of Serie A’s standout full-backs.
7. Emil Holm
Emil Holm, the Swedish right-back, joined Atalanta in 2023 from Spezia for a fee of €6 million. Born in Stockholm, Holm began his career at IFK Norrköping before moving to Italy. His dynamic playing style and attacking prowess have made him a fan favorite at the Gewiss Stadium. Holm’s ability to overlap and deliver dangerous crosses into the box provides Atalanta with an additional attacking outlet. Defensively, he is disciplined and rarely caught out of position. Holm’s work rate and commitment to both ends of the pitch make him an integral part of the team’s setup.
8. Martín de Roon
While primarily known as a midfielder, Martín de Roon’s versatility allows him to slot into the defense when needed. The Dutchman, born in Zwijndrecht, Netherlands, rejoined Atalanta in 2017 after a brief stint at Middlesbrough. His tactical intelligence and ability to read the game make him a valuable asset in defensive situations. De Roon’s leadership and experience are crucial in guiding younger players, and his willingness to adapt to different roles underscores his importance to the squad. Whether in midfield or defense, de Roon’s contributions are always impactful.
Conclusion
Atalanta BC’s defensive unit for the 2024/25 season is a harmonious blend of experience, youth, and versatility. From the leadership of Rafael Tolói and Berat Djimsiti to the burgeoning talents of Giorgio Scalvini and Matteo Ruggeri, each defender brings unique qualities to the team. The additions of Isak Hien and Emil Holm have further strengthened the squad, ensuring depth and competition for places. As Atalanta continues to compete on multiple fronts, their defenders will play a pivotal role in maintaining the balance between solidity at the back and support for the attack. With such a well-rounded group, the future looks bright for La Dea’s defensive line.