Atalanta is set to host Parma in Bergamo this Sunday, May 25th, for the final Serie A matchday. While Atalanta has already secured Champions League football, Cristian Chivu’s Parma desperately needs points to avoid relegation.
The Serie A season reaches its dramatic conclusion as Atalanta, having already secured a commendable third place and Champions League qualification, prepares to host a Parma side fighting for their top-flight survival. The match, scheduled for Sunday, May 25th, at 8:45 PM in Bergamo, holds little significance for Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta beyond ending their successful campaign on a high note. However, for Cristian Chivu’s Parma, everything is on the line.
The High Stakes for Parma
Parma’s Serie A status hangs precariously in the balance. With 33 points, several scenarios could unfold on the final day:
- Direct Relegation: If Parma loses to Atalanta AND both Empoli and Lecce win their respective matches, Parma will be relegated.
- Relegation Playoff: A draw for Parma, combined with victories for both Empoli and Lecce, would force Parma into a tense relegation playoff.
- Paths to Survival:
- A win against Atalanta guarantees Parma’s safety.
- A draw could be enough, but only if neither Lecce nor Empoli win their games.
- Even a defeat might see Parma survive, provided at least one of Empoli or Lecce fails to win their match.
Who Is Affected?
While Atalanta approaches this final fixture with the comfort of their European qualification secured, the pressure is immense on Parma. Coach Cristian Chivu, his players, and the club’s supporters face an anxious final day. The outcomes of Empoli’s and Lecce’s matches are just as crucial and will be watched with bated breath by everyone associated with Parma.
For Atalanta, the match is an opportunity to thank their home fans and fine-tune their squad. For Parma, it’s a fight for their Serie A identity.
Chivu’s Challenge and Gasperini’s Outlook
Cristian Chivu, the head coach of Parma, faces the monumental task of preparing his team for this do-or-die encounter. Against a strong Atalanta side, even one playing without the usual pressure, securing points will require a performance of immense character and tactical astuteness.
On the other side, Atalanta’s Gian Piero Gasperini might use this game to give opportunities to different players or experiment with tactics, though his team will undoubtedly aim to finish their league season with a victory in front of their home supporters.
Probable Lineups
The anticipated formations for the match are:
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ATALANTA (3-4-2-1): Rui Patricio; Kossounou, Hien, Djimsiti; Palestra, Sulemana, Brescianini, Ruggeri; De Ketelaere, Maldini; Retegui.
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PARMA (3-5-2): Suzuki; Circati, Leoni, Balogh (Valenti); Delprato, Sohm, Keita, Hernani, Valeri; Bonny, Pellegrino.
What Happens Next?
The outcome of this match, along with others played simultaneously, will finalize the Serie A table, confirming the last relegated team or teams, or who proceeds to a playoff. For Parma, the 90 minutes in Bergamo could mean the difference between continued top-flight football and the drop to Serie B. The football world will be watching closely as this crucial chapter of the Serie A season unfolds.
6. Editor’s Note:
Editor’s Note: This article is based on a report from OneFootball, originally titled “La squadra di Chivu si gioca tutto a Bergamo: le probabili formazioni di Atalanta-Parma,” published on or around May 25, 2025. It has been rewritten for clarity, accessibility, and SEO optimization, preserving all key facts and quotes
