Marotta: ‘Atalanta are the hare, Inter the hunters’ in Scudetto chase

Inter President Beppe Marotta insists Atalanta are ‘among the prime candidates to win the Scudetto’ and will hold on to their leadership role for a while. ‘They are the hare and we are the hunters.’

La Dea are top of the Serie A table after an all-time club record run of 10 consecutive victories, although the Nerazzurri are three points behind with a game in hand.

While Atalanta have been eager to shrug off the added pressure of being considered title contenders, Marotta is content to pile that back on them.

“Atalanta are a worldwide example of a winning and virtuous club model,” said the Inter chief at the Gazzetta Sports Awards in Genoa this evening.

“There are teams who have different characteristics, but Atalanta have gained a winning mentality now and that is no mean feat. I trust they will be able to handle the pressures that will come during the season.

“They are the hare and we are the hunters. I maintain they are among the prime candidates to win the Scudetto.”

Marotta sees Atalanta, Inter and Napoli in for a long race

Atalanta have certainly gained more respect and notoriety since beating Bayer Leverkusen in the Final to lift the Europa League last season, while they have also started strong in the Champions League so far this term.

Inter remain the favourites for the Scudetto, especially as they are defending the title won last year by Simone Inzaghi.

“Simone was a player first and therefore knows the dynamics of the locker room. He ought to be considered among the best coaches out there, as he has matured and gathered a great deal of experience since coming to us, which means he is always prepared,” added Marotta.

Antonio Conte is the other main challenger in his first season on the Napoli bench and is currently in second place.

“Conte is a great professional who has won so much in his career and that gives him a head start compared to other situations. Conte, Inzaghi and Gasperini all live for this beautiful sport.”