Ademola Lookman Left Out of Atalanta Squad for Lecce Clash

Ademola Lookman was not chosen for Atalanta’s game against Lecce, as coach Ivan Juric confirmed. The Nigerian forward will miss the match after a difficult time at the club. Lookman has formally requested a transfer to Inter Milan, after Atalanta turned down offers during the final days of the transfer window.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Lookman returned to Atalanta after playing for Nigeria in World Cup qualifiers. He played 75 minutes against Rwanda and the whole game against South Africa. Earlier, Lookman trained alone because he wanted to move to Inter Milan. Atalanta rejected Inter’s €45 million offer for him, alongside previous loan offers from Bayern Munich and Galatasaray. Although he was allowed back with the team, coach Juric confirmed he would not play against Lecce on Sunday.

LOOKMAN’S IMPACT AND TEAM SITUATION

Lookman was a key player for Atalanta last season, scoring 13 goals and providing 8 assists in 31 league appearances. Without him, the team has fewer attacking options as they aim for a spot in the Champions League next season. Currently, Atalanta are in the lower half in Serie A after two matches, where they have only collected two points, while Lecce are one point behind and hope to take advantage of Atalanta’s lineup issues.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ATALANTA AND LOOKMAN?

After playing Lecce, Atalanta will face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League next Wednesday. Lookman’s fitness improved thanks to playing time with Nigeria, but it’s unclear if he will play in this major European game. Coach Juric will need to manage the team well as Atalanta wants to move up in Serie A and prepare for important matches. Everyone will watch Lookman closely in the next few weeks, especially since he is expected to be part of Atalanta’s Champions League campaign.