The adaptable defender, who is now 26 years old, paid around £8.4 million (€10 million) to join the Italian team permanently this week.
During his introduction on Thursday, Godfrey spoke with Italian journalists and said that he had discussed his intention to move to Serie A with his former manager, Carlo Ancelotti.
“Carlo Ancelotti was one of the first who I contacted once I learned of Atalanta’s interest – he immediately advised me to go there,” stated Godfrey.
He also gave the Italian league high marks, saying, “Serie A is a Championship [which is] very strong where all the teams are tactically prepared.”
GODFREY AT LIVERPOOL DOES A SLY DIG
Godfrey then made a lighthearted reference to the intense Merseyside rivalry. Godfrey has battled to earn a spot in Everton’s starting lineup under manager Sean Dyche.
“At Everton, everyone was happy that I came here, like how they were happy with Liverpool’s elimination in the quarterfinals of the Europa League,” he stated.
In their season-ending match, the two teams squared off, with the Reds ultimately losing 3-1 on aggregate following a dismal 3-0 loss in the first leg at Anfield.
Ademola Lookman’s hat-trick helped Atalanta defeat Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen team 3-0 in the championship match in Dublin.
Atalanta is now assured a spot in the Champions League for the following season after placing fourth in Serie A and winning the Europa League.
This implies that La Dea and Liverpool will participate in the premier championship in Europe once more. Godfrey’s statements will undoubtedly add a little gasoline to the fire if the two sides clash once more.
