Bergamo's beloved lads, Atalanta, stem from a founding back in 1907. They host their foes at The New Balance Arena, an Italian fortress of footballing finesse. A gathering ground for merry masses to revel in the ballet of the beautiful game.
Value is mercurial in this sport we so obsess over. However, according to the good people at Transfermarkt, the Atalanta squad's worth hovers close to the intimidating figure of £350m.
A band of 22 players make up the Atalanta orchestra, a symphony of shins and studs clashing harmoniously upon Italian grass. The golden age of 26 is the average among this lot. Savvy enough to know their role, yet green still, full of ambition and gumption. Peak of fitness, prime of life.
This season has seen Atalanta challenge on three fronts. They've fought and scraped in Serie A, currently standing proud in 7th place. Not to mention their brave battles in the Coppa Italia, making their mark, etching their name deep into the tournament with a Quarter-Final placing. And who can forget their Champions League campaign? A dazzling dance on the edge of the abyss, battling their way into the Knockout Play-offs.