Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino has emphasised the growing importance of squad players such as Ghana international Kamaldeen Sulemana as the club heads into a demanding and potentially decisive period of the campaign.
La Dea remain firmly in the mix across multiple competitions. They currently occupy seventh place in Serie A as they push for a European qualification spot, while also maintaining ambitions in both the UEFA Champions League and the Coppa Italia.
The Bergamo-based side are preparing for a heavyweight Champions League round of 16 showdown against German powerhouse Bayern Munich. At the same time, their Coppa Italia semi-final clash with Lazio remains delicately balanced following an entertaining 2-2 draw in the first leg played in Rome.
Kamaldeen Sulemana strikes late as Atalanta knock Juventus out of Coppa Italia
Sulemana played a significant role in that encounter despite starting on the bench. Introduced in the 76th minute, the Ghanaian winger injected pace and urgency into Atalanta’s attack and quickly made his presence felt. He set up fellow substitute Yunus Musah for the decisive equaliser, highlighting the value of the team’s bench options.
Reflecting on the contribution of his substitutes after the match, Palladino stressed that players who have not enjoyed regular minutes will be vital as Atalanta navigate a crowded fixture calendar.
“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’s season has largely seen him feature as a rotational option, but the winger has still managed to make useful contributions. The 23-year-old has recorded three goals and one assist in 30 appearances in all competitions, often providing energy and direct running when called upon.
YUNUS 🎯#LazioAtalanta #CoppaItaliaFrecciarossa #GoAtalantaGo ⚫️🔵 pic.twitter.com/eOeBebpM8a
— Atalanta B.C. (@Atalanta_BC) March 5, 2026
His recent cameo against Lazio served as another reminder of his attacking threat and ability to influence games in key moments.
Beyond club duties, Sulemana is also expected to be included in Ghana’s squad for their upcoming international friendlies against Austria and Germany later this month. The matches form part of the Black Stars’ preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
