Young Atalanta forward Gaetano Monachello has denied speculation suggesting there is an internal rivalry with himself and team-mate German Denis.
Denis appears to be nearing the exit door in Bergamo, with questions about his future intensifying since La Dea’s most recent Serie A outing against Inter, in which Monachello was selected to start up front.
“It is not easy being on the bench but I think I deal with it well,” the 21-year-old told L’Eco di Bergamo. “I am still only a backup player; I need to grow.”
“I have options available to me but I want to stay here and fight for my place in the team.
“There is no rivalry [with Denis]. We have a good relationship. I am proud to be able to work so closely with him.”
Though Edy Reja has his side in 12th place in the Serie A table, Monachello insists the team’s primary focus remains to be securing their top-flight status.
“We are fully focused on the next game against Frosinone,” he said.
“Our main aim is still survival.”
