April 12th news. Benitez recently accepted an interview with Sky Sport Italia and talked about the upcoming Europa League game between Atalanta and Liverpool.
Benitez said, "I think this will be a high-intensity game. I have watched several of Atalanta's games. When the opponent carries out high-intensity pressing, Atalanta will encounter some troubles. I think the trend of this game will probably be like this. However, Liverpool may give Atalanta a little space."
When it comes to Atalanta's possibility of advancing to the next round, Benitez said, "It is very difficult, but they can do it. Atalanta plays very well. Although Liverpool is very strong, Atalanta also has the possibility to use the counterattack to hurt the opponent. We must see who will play tonight, but Atalanta is full of motivation to win the game and go to the end of the event."
When talking about Atalanta coach Gasperini, Benitez praised, "He is a smart coach, he knows what he is doing. When a team and a club have clear ideas, the coach is easier to do his job. Atalanta is also very smart, they immediately trust their coach. Gasperini has an advantage, that is, he has worked with the same group of players for many years. He is a person who understands football and players, and he can express his requirements and concepts in the best way."
When it comes to his old club Liverpool, Benitez said, "Klopp will try to use the pressure of Anfield to play aggressively, but Liverpool may be distracted by the English Premier League title race. Liverpool will play songs when the opponent's team comes out and make them feel scared. I think Atalanta has the experience to deal with these pressures, but it will be very difficult."
"I admit that I must support Liverpool, however, I also like Atalanta, because Atalanta has been doing well for many years. Atalanta is a very calm club, they know what they should do."
Finally, when talking about his own future, Benitez said, "Will I return to coach in Italy in the future? Who knows what the future will be like?"
