Mario Pasalic, Atalanta Player Who Experienced Three Lives
June 26, 2026 · Global
Mario Pasalic, Atalanta player, has had a meaningful journey at the club, from loan to stardom. With the arrival of Maurizio Sarri, it is hoped that the new cycle will prioritize his role.
If Alfred Hitchcock had watched Mario Pasalic's career at Atalanta, it would have inspired one of his most famous films, "The Captain Who Lived Three Times", depicting the number 8's journey at Città Alta.
Arrival in Bergamo in 2018: From Initial Difficulties to Success
Life first began when he arrived in 2018, where he felt like an ordinary loan player. However, the reality is much bigger. After overcoming various difficulties and undergoing a gradual growth process, his hard work was rewarded with extraordinary achievements.
"Destined Man" in Atalanta's Historical Moment
His second life was marked by the title "the man of destiny", always scoring goals at important moments: from the match against Sassuolo which brought his club to the Champions League, to the matches against Shakhtar, Manchester City and PSG. He also scored numerous goals in the league, making him the third highest goalscorer in the club's history, with notable achievements including victory in the Europa League.
From Champion to Atalanta Icon
The third life is when the champion becomes an icon, and in the final season, he gains tremendous affection and dedication from the fans, showing strong leadership. Coupled with the new cycle under Maurizio Sarri, where the 4-3-3 formation can further optimize his contribution.
Karlic's Role in Sarri's 4-3-3 Formation
There is no doubt about his position, even when it comes to playing time: Mario Pasalic will be played as a mezzala, with duties in construction and penetration (his best abilities). Many passes will pass through him in the build-up phase, taking advantage of his ability to create space and provide rhythm to the game. Cohesion in the "triangle" (mezzala-terzino-ala) scheme will be very important, where he must provide support when the wingers advance, as well as stopping the opponent's play. And don't forget the goal factor: penetrating from behind has always been his specialty, even when playing as a false nine.
Pasalic can be considered a kind of "Hamsík" for Atalanta, in terms of his role (which with Maurizio Sarri reached the peak of his career), with the belief that under the direction of Maurizio Sarri, he can start a new football life and again write an important page in Atalanta's history.
