Atalanta youngster Alberto Grassi has put pen to paper on a contract extension that will see him stay at the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia until 2020.
The midfielder made his La Dea debut in Serie A last season and has found himself playing regularly this season in the absence of Luca Cigarini and Carlos Carmona.
Speaking to Atalanta’s official club website, Grassi admitted his pride in signing the extension.
“It is a pivotal year for my growth in football,” the 20-year-old began.
“It gives me enormous pride to extend my stay here,” he added.
Having praised coach Edy Reja in the build up to the Orobici’s 2-1 victory over Sampdoria, Grassi was quick to mention the influence of his coach immediately after signing the contract.
“I get on well with the coach,” he said.
“He gives me freedom in the team and I am working hard to repay the faith he has shown in me.
“I want to do anything I can to help my teammates and always give my all for the team.”
The Italian received his first national team Under-21 call-up in August from coach Luigi Di Biagio and he concluded by touching on this and his gratitude to the emphasis on youth at the Bergamo club.
“I received my first U-21 call-up in August and I was very emotional.
“It has been a brilliant year for me, full of good news, but I just want to continue to work hard.
“At Atalanta there is great attention given to young players in Bergamo.
“I owe a great deal to this club.”
