'I need these guys more than ever' â?? Atalanta coach turns to Kamaldeen Sulemana for crucial run-in

2026-03-06 - 01:45

Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino has declared that he needs players like Ghana winger Kamaldeen Sulemana more than ever as the Italian side enters the decisive phase of the season competing on three fronts. Atalanta currently sit seventh in Serie A, remain in contention for Europa League qualification, and are still alive in both the UEFA Champions League and Coppa Italia. They face German giants Bayern Munich in the Champions League round of 16, while their Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio is finely poised after a 2-2 first-leg draw in Rome. It was in that cup tie that Sulemana made his mark. The Ghanaian came off the bench in the 76th minute and provided an assist for fellow substitute Yunus Musah's goal, showcasing the impact of Atalanta's second unit. Speaking after the match, Palladino made it clear that squad depth will be crucial in the weeks ahead. "Brilliant from Musah, a top impact off the bench. I need these lads who haven't had as many minutes lately," he said. "Musah, Kossounou, Sulemana—everyone who's had less game time. We've got a packed schedule, and we're competing on three fronts." Sulemana has registered three goals and one assist in 30 appearances across all competitions this season, largely operating as a fringe player. But his contribution against Lazio served as a timely reminder of his quality. The 23-year-old is also in line to be named in the Black Stars squad for Ghana's upcoming friendly matches against Austria and Germany later this month, as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.