Meet The Coaches: Tony Salentino

At Atalanta FC, we are proud to be supported by a coaching team whose experience, knowledge and passion help shape the journeys of every player who steps onto the pitch. Our Meet the Coaches series shines a light on the people behind the sessions — the people who inspire, challenge and nurture our players within our positive and ambitious football environment.

Today, we are delighted to introduce Tony Salentino, a coach whose impact on youth development stretches across decades of elite academy football.

Current Roles

Lead Coach, Atalanta FC U18 Performance

Supporting Player Development Across the Club

U15/U16 Academy Coach, Southampton FC

Tony brings a wealth of experience from both a professional academy setting, helping elevate the standards and aspirations of players throughout Atalanta FC.

Qualifications

UEFA A Licence (Level 4)

FA Advanced Youth Award (Level 4)

Experience & Achievements

With almost 25 years of service at Southampton FC’s renowned academy, Tony was honoured with the Legacy Award, recognising his outstanding contribution to youth development.

Throughout his career, Tony has supported and influenced the journeys of players who have progressed to professional and international levels, including:

Gareth Bale

Adam Lallana

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Tyrone Mings

Luke Shaw

James Ward-Prowse

Calum Chambers

Ben White

Tyler Dibling

His experience working with top-level talent brings invaluable insight to Atalanta FC’s player pathway.

Why Do You Coach?

“Supporting players to reach their full potential, making football fun and watching them grow into good men and women.”

Tony’s coaching is rooted in care, enjoyment and long-term development — values that align perfectly with Atalanta FC’s philosophy.

What Attracted You to Atalanta FC?

“The care they show the players and the passion the club has for promoting the female game. It has a family feel where all girls are welcome and enjoy the game, playing with a smile.”

What Do You Enjoy Most About Working With Our Players?

“Seeing them smiling, having fun and showing the desire to improve.”

Tony’s sessions are built around positivity, energy and a genuine love for the game.

Coaching Philosophy

"I want players to remember how I made them feel about football — not how tactically skilled or technically able I am, but how I share my love of the game.”

This player‑centred approach is at the heart of Tony’s coaching identity.

Advice for Young Players

“Have no regrets when you cross the white line. If you finish a game or training session knowing you’ve given the best version of yourself, with a smile on your face, that’s what keeps you loving the sport.”

Fun Fact

Tony coached former Southampton FC Premier League player Sam McQueen at U13/U14 level — and now coaches alongside him within Southampton FC’s U15/U16 age groups.

A Coach Who Inspires

We are incredibly fortunate to have coaches of Tony’s calibre supporting the development of our players. His experience, passion and commitment help create the positive, ambitious and player‑focused environment that Atalanta FC is proud to provide.

Tony’s influence extends far beyond the pitch — shaping confident, resilient and joyful young players who love the game.