Atalanta-Kairat Almaty, Sarri: "Retreat was the right choice, I have the club's trust"

Sarri defends retreat decision ahead of Kairat Almaty clash, citing need to rebuild morale after five-game winless run.

Atalanta manager Maurizio Sarri has defended the club's decision to hold a training retreat, describing it as the right call during a difficult period. The Bergamo side are winless in five matches across league and cup competitions.

Speaking to Sky Sport ahead of Thursday's Conference League fixture against Kairat Almaty, Sarri explained the retreat's purpose: "It's a way to be together, to have more contact with the players. It's a way to have collective and individual conversations, to spend time together even without necessarily talking about football."

Sarri acknowledged emotional fragility in the squad, particularly after Monday's loss to Parma. Despite a strong first half, the team's mood collapsed after conceding a late goal. "There was already an atmosphere of depression in the dressing room, and that wasn't right," he said. "The match could have been put back on track."

On criticism that some players don't suit his style, Sarri countered: "In flashes they are playing it. I saw an excellent first half from us—a team with a high centre of gravity, playing in the opponent's half and creating chances."

Regarding pressure, Sarri remained unfazed: "Years ago I realized we're under discussion every three days. I've accepted it and it no longer puts any pressure on me.