PEP GUARDIOLA once famously likened playing against Atalanta to going to the dentist, and today, Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool experienced firsthand just how painful it can be.

Liverpool suffered a surprising setback in their Europa League clash against Atalanta at Anfield.

Former West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca delivered a standout performance, scoring a brace to remind Premier League supporters of his abilities, while Mario Pasalic also found the net three times for Atalanta.

Liverpool fans had been hopeful of a glorious send-off for Klopp in Dublin’s Europa League final on May 22, which would mark his final game in charge of the club. However, those dreams are now hanging by a thread, and the Reds must produce something exceptional in Bergamo next Thursday to keep them alive.

The biggest surprise of the night came from Scamacca, who previously struggled to make an impact in Serie A after his move to Atalanta. However, he capitalized on a good scoring streak to stun Liverpool with his performance.

Despite Liverpool’s strong showing in their recent 2-2 draw against Manchester United, tonight’s performance was underwhelming. Klopp made three halftime substitutions, bringing on Mo Salah, Dominic Szoboszlai, and Andy Robertson, but it failed to spark a comeback.

Atalanta, despite their recent struggles in Serie A, proved to be a formidable opponent, with Klopp’s side unable to contain their attacks effectively.

Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed, with Scamacca finding ample space to score his second goal of the night with a stunning finish.

Despite Salah’s efforts to pull one back for Liverpool, his goal was ruled out for offside. And with seven minutes remaining, Pasalic capitalized on a defensive lapse to seal the victory for Atalanta.

Klopp’s side now faces an uphill battle in the return leg, and their hopes for a treble this season are in jeopardy. While they have already secured one trophy, their chances of adding more silverware are now uncertain.