Ranieri: “We started well but it wasn’t enough – I want more”

Claudio Ranieri didn’t hide his dissatisfaction after Sampdoria were beaten 2-0 at home by Atalanta in the lunchtime kick-off in Serie A on Sunday.

“We started well, on the right foot, and were pressing Atalanta and causing them problems,” began the Sampdoria boss after the game. “Then they scored a very good goal to take the lead. We tried to start the second half the way we’d started the first, but then they scored two more goals – one of which was disallowed. At that point they deserved to win, but it’s still a shame.”

Ranieri was critical of his team’s desire on the pitch on Sunday.

“The match was a demanding one, but we were only able to match them blow for blow while our mentality held out,” said Ranieri, who also defended his choice of starting line-up. “My decisions were based on the fact that we have the derby in three days. I wanted us to show our quality out there, but unfortunately it didn’t turn out as I’d hoped. Now let’s focus on the next game, which is a massive one. Am I pleased with our season so far? No, I always want more.”