New Atalanta coach backs Lookman

Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino has voiced strong support for Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman despite the forward’s slow start to the season and ongoing transfer speculation.

Lookman has scored just once in ten appearances across all competitions after a difficult summer in which he was unable to secure a transfer despite interest from several top European sides.

The 28-year-old was reportedly on the radar of Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and a host of other clubs. However, Atalanta blocked a move to Inter Milan last summer after the Nerazzurri offered €45m, insisting on €50m instead, a stance that reportedly angered the player.

The Super Eagles star had a fallout with former Atalanta manager Ivan Juric during their 1–0 UEFA Champions League victory over Marseille on November 5.

Juric was dismissed weeks later after a string of poor results, paving the way for Palladino’s appointment.

Speaking to reporters, Palladino described Lookman as an important figure in his plans and emphasised the personal effort he has made to reconnect with the player.

“I have a huge belief in Ademola. He’s a strong player who can make the difference,” he said as quoted by TuttoAtalanta.

“I called him personally while he was on the national team, as I did with all the others, because it’s important for me to speak to each individual player and understand how they feel.”

He added, “He presented himself well upon his return, and I’ll evaluate his deployment based on what I see in training and what the pitch tells me. But he’s a player I’m banking on.”

Lookman’s struggles have fuelled rumours of a possible January exit, with clubs such as Fenerbahce, Galatasaray and other European sides reportedly monitoring his situation.

Galatasaray view Lookman as a marquee addition who could link up with Super Eagles teammate Victor Osimhen, whilst Fenerbahce have monitored him for months.

However, according to Gala insider Burhan Can Terzi, the Turkish giants are holding back in their pursuit due to concerns about the player’s recent performances.

Beyond Turkey, Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur, who both attempted to sign Lookman during the summer, are preparing fresh January approaches.

However, the Nigeria international will be keen to rediscover the form that once won him the 2024 African Player of the Year honour as he begins a fresh chapter under Palladino.