Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles and Atalanta forward, has been welcomed back into La Dea‘s main squad training sessions, though he will be sidelined for their upcoming Serie A fixture against Lecce, according to Soccernet.ng.
The 27-year-old player had expressed a strong desire to exit the Bergamo club before the transfer window closed. In an attempt to expedite a move that ultimately did not materialize, Lookman skipped team training and preseason matches.
La Dea stood firm on their decision not to transfer Lookman to another Italian club. Since Inter Milan was the only team to submit an offer, the club chose to retain the player.
As previously highlighted by Soccernet.ng, after Lookman’s involvement with the Nigerian National team during the September international break, the CAF 2024 Player of the Year has transitioned from solo training back to full participation with Atalanta’s first team for the first time this season.
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Lookman to Sit Out Lecce Encounter
Despite the club refraining from imposing further disciplinary actions on the England-born Nigerian, the former Everton winger will be absent from the squad for tomorrow’s match against Lecce.
Atalanta’s manager, Ivan Juric, revealed during his pre-match press briefing that Lookman’s enthusiasm to represent the club remains insufficient, largely due to the drawn-out transfer saga over the summer.
“This is a challenging and uncomfortable situation,” the ex-Southampton coach remarked, as reported by Sport Calcio.
“From a coaching perspective, what we require goes beyond talent: it’s about spirit, determination, humility, hard work, and truly embracing the club’s identity.
“On a personal level, I expect more commitment; I want a different level of dedication, and that’s how we will proceed. I am not here to plead with him.
“My relationship with Lookman is good, but I shouldn’t have to convince him to give his all on the pitch. We are Atalanta, representing our city.
“We embody values like hard work and humility, and these are non-negotiable. I don’t need to beg anyone. We all agree that Atalanta demands strong human values,” Juric concluded.
Atalanta’s performance has suffered in Lookman’s absence. Following the departure of Mario Retegui to Saudi Arabia’s Al Qadisiya, the reigning 2024 UEFA Europa League champions have yet to register a win this season.
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