The popularity of Italian football now goes hand in hand with Atalanta.

On Tuesday night, as last season’s finalist Inter Milan bowed out of the UEFA Champions League following defeat to Bodø/Glimt, concerns arose for Italian football. For the first time since the 1987–88 season, when the tournament was known as the European Cup, there was a real possibility that no Italian side would reach the Champions League round of 16. That scenario, however, was averted by Atalanta, whose tenacity has earned them admiration across Italy, with many now dubbing them the nation’s current favourite.

Italian Clubs in Play-Offs

Three Italian clubs remained in the play-off stage. Inter Milan, despite their historic pedigree, were eliminated after losing both legs to Bodø/Glimt. After a 3–1 defeat in the first leg, they suffered a 2–1 loss at home, ending the campaign for the three-time European champions. Football analysts described their exit as a “disaster for Italian football.” Veteran journalist Vincenzo Credendino wrote, “Regarding Italy and Inter, this is among the worst outcomes.”

Juventus were next in line to uphold national pride. The two-time Champions League winners faced a daunting first-leg 5–2 defeat in Istanbul against Galatasaray, compounded by key injuries to stars such as Dušan Vlahović and Andrea Cambiaso. At home, Juventus staged a remarkable comeback, winning 3–0 despite being reduced to ten men following a red card for Lloyd Kelly in the 48th minute. However, extra-time proved insurmountable, and the aggregate 4–2 scoreline saw them eliminated before the round of 16.

Atalanta, Italy’s remaining contender, faced Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park. Despite a first-leg 2–0 deficit, Atalanta produced a stunning display, scoring three goals within 57 minutes to lead 3–0 on the night. Dortmund clawed one back through Karim Adeyemi in the 75th minute, and a stoppage-time penalty narrowed the margin further, but Atalanta advanced with a 4–3 aggregate victory, securing Italy’s sole spot in the last 16.

Football pundit Daniele Berri remarked, “Had none of the three Italian sides progressed, it would have been a total catastrophe for our clubs.”

Atalanta’s rise and resilient performance offer renewed hope for Italian football. Yet, the path ahead is formidable, with potential last-16 opponents including Arsenal or Bayern Munich. Former West Brom and Aston Villa defender Curtis Davies told Radio 5 Live, “Atalanta have become Italian football’s favourite.”

Football analyst James Horncastle added, “In many ways, Atalanta now represents Serie A. Eight years ago, this was unimaginable. Since then, they’ve won European trophies, reached three Coppa Italia finals, and now firmly established themselves in the Champions League.” Journalist Nicky Bandini emphasised the wider significance: “This victory enhances Atalanta’s image internationally more than Juventus or Inter, as they are not traditionally among Italy’s biggest clubs.”

Atalanta’s story is one of grit, ambition, and a shift in Italian football’s hierarchy, capturing the hearts of fans across the nation.