Mario Pašalić still trying to quit the Chelsea Loan Army habit, appeals for Atalanta stay

Chelsea midfielder Mario Pašalić is once again on loan at Atalanta for the season, is once again getting lots of praise for his performances, is once again hoping to be able to quit the Loan Army for good, and is once again hoping that Atalanta will exercise their €15m buy-option. (Ed.note: as with many bad habits, it’s not as easy as simply quitting — especially if you want to do it right.)

Atalanta could have turned his loan into a permanent transfer last summer already, but despite qualifying for the Champions League and the associated prize money that entails, they chose the cheaper route and extended it instead. Meanwhile, Chelsea and Pašalić agreed to a new three-year contract, which should in theory ensure that Chelsea do eventually receive some sort of compensation for “Super Mario”, who really wouldn’t mind settling down in Bergamo.

“I would like to settle down, play in the same club for a few seasons.

“I am satisfied, I needed a club in which I would have continuity, to combine at least two seasons. Coach Gasperini is a top expert, we are one of the few Serie A teams to play offensively.

“I can’t influence Chelsea’s decision, but I wouldn’t mind staying in Bergamo.”

-Mario Pasalic; source: 24Sata via Sport Witness

Atalanta are once again doing fairly well in the Serie A and are firmly in the top four race. And while their maiden Champions League campaign has not been great, they remain in with a chance of a Europa League parachute.

Pašalić has been instrumental to Atalanta’s successes in the past two seasons. It would be a win-win-win situation for all involved if a deal could be worked out finally.