The 2009-10 campaign delivered a devastating end for Atalanta as La Dea finished a crushing 18th in Serie A, resulting in relegation to Serie B after a difficult season built on inconsistency and multiple managerial changes. Despite the turmoil, the powerful forward Simone Tiribocchi proved a rare bright spot, leading the club's scoring charts with 11 crucial goals. It was a dark and turbulent year that marked the end of their stay in the top flight.