Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has revealed the key condition under which Nigerian international Ademola Lookman can be fully reintegrated into the club’s first-team squad. Percassi emphasized that while the club recognizes Lookman’s immense talent and contributions, the winger must demonstrate a renewed commitment and strong desire to represent Atalanta on the field.
Lookman, who had a turbulent summer involving a rejected transfer request and a training boycott, was initially isolated from first-team activities after attempting to force a move to Inter Milan. His return to Bergamo came after Inter’s withdrawal from negotiations, but tensions between player and club remain.
“Our club operates on values of hard work, humility, and passion for the badge,” Percassi told DAZN on September 14, 2025. “Lookman needs to show us that he is willing to fully commit — to give 100% in training and matches and to embrace the collective cause. Only then will we welcome him back completely.”
The 28-year-old, who missed pre-season and early Serie A fixtures, did not feature for Atalanta in the recent 3-0 win over Lecce and is unlikely to be available for the upcoming Champions League fixture against Paris Saint-Germain, as confirmed by head coach Ivan Juric.
Lookman’s situation encapsulates a clash between the player’s desire for a new challenge and the club’s insistence on professionalism and collective values. Despite the conflict, Atalanta are hopeful that a resolution can be found that enables Lookman to contribute to the team’s ambitions in Serie A and Europe.
As one of Nigeria’s premier footballers and the 2024 CAF Player of the Year, Lookman’s performances remain under close scrutiny by fans and potential suitors, but his immediate focus must be earning full trust and match fitness at Atalanta.
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