From Ketelaere, centerpiece of Sarri's new Atalanta: what role for the Belgian in the 4-3-3?
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
With the arrival of Maurizio Sarri, Atalanta will begin a new cycle where Charles De Ketelaere will have a key role, potentially repositioned as a right winger in a 4-3-3. Analysis of what its mission could be and its prospects for progression.
Atalanta is preparing to enter a new era with the arrival of Maurizio Sarri on the bench. This change of direction promises to be profound, involving both possible departures and the evolution of certain key elements already present in the squad. Among them, Charles De Ketelaere finds himself at the heart of a real tactical and personal challenge.
Until now used under Palladino in a more creative and free role, the Belgian could see his position evolve under Sarri, specialist in 4-3-3. De Ketelaere should therefore be tested as a right winger, a position requiring as much defensive rigor as precision in the offensive phases.
De Ketelaere's 2025/2026 season showed great technical qualities and strong leadership, even if his goals and assists statistics fluctuated compared to his previous years. Sometimes positioned too far from the goal, he seemed to be deprived of clear chances, which weighed on his performance in attack.
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In the Sarri system, the former Bruges player will undoubtedly have to evolve in the manner of Zaccagni under Lazio: less of a pure overflow winger than a player capable of returning to the axis to initiate or finish actions. His relationship with the right side and the right mezzala will be crucial, as will his ability to combine in small spaces.
On the defensive level, Sarri will also expect from his winger a constant withdrawal, almost worthy of a midfielder, capable of supporting his full-back and reintegrating with the midfielders in the transition phase.
This new challenge will therefore not be a total upheaval for De Ketelaere, but requires greater tactical maturity. He will have to show lucidity in his races, but also cynicism in the last gesture - all elements that Sarri wishes to exploit to take his Atalanta to a new level. The Belgian, already the driving force of the collective, is now expected to be an offensive leader, at the crossroads of the lines and the Bergamo project.
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