The relationship between Atalanta coach Ivan Juric and Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman has deteriorated to the point of no return, at least for the immediate future, culminating in Lookman’s exclusion from Atalanta’s Champions League group stage opener against reigning champions PSG. This marks the fourth consecutive time Lookman has been left out of Juric’s squad, following a summer transfer saga where the player expressed his desire to leave the club. Despite an impressive international break performance with Nigeria, Lookman remains in exile, with Juric refusing to “beg” the player to return and club director Luca Percassi echoing the coach’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for players fully committed to the club’s cause.
Lookman’s absence adds to Atalanta’s woes as they face a formidable PSG side without several key players due to injury. Ederson, Gianluca Scamacca, Sead Kolasinac, and Mitchel Bakker are all sidelined, leaving Juric with a depleted squad for this crucial Champions League clash. While Atalanta finally secured their first victory of the new Serie A season against Lecce, following two disappointing draws, the Lookman saga hangs heavy over the club. The discord between player and coach threatens to destabilize the team, especially as they navigate a challenging group stage in Europe’s elite competition.
The root of the conflict stems from Lookman’s desire for a move away from Atalanta during the summer transfer window. While the club was open to a permanent transfer, they set a hefty €50m price tag, which deterred potential suitors. Inter Milan’s bid fell short of Atalanta’s valuation, leaving Lookman stranded at the club, despite interest from Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray. With the Turkish transfer window now closed, Lookman appears to have run out of options, at least until the January transfer window reopens.
This impasse presents a significant challenge for both Lookman and Atalanta. For the player, his career is effectively on hold, missing valuable game time and potentially jeopardizing his international prospects. For Atalanta, they are deprived of a talented winger who played a crucial role in their previous campaign. The club’s firm stance reflects their unwillingness to compromise on their principles, emphasizing the importance of player commitment and dedication.
The ongoing saga underscores the complex dynamics within professional football. While players have the right to seek new opportunities, clubs also have a responsibility to protect their interests and maintain squad harmony. In Lookman’s case, his desire to leave has clashed with Atalanta’s valuation and their insistence on a permanent transfer. The resulting standoff has left both parties in a difficult position, with no clear resolution in sight.
The situation also highlights the power dynamics between coaches and players. Juric’s refusal to reinstate Lookman, despite his undeniable talent, demonstrates the coach’s authority and his determination to uphold his principles. While Lookman’s talent is undeniable, his current absence underscores the importance of commitment and teamwork in professional football. Until a resolution is found, both player and club face an uncertain future. The coming months will likely be crucial in determining whether Lookman can regain his place in the Atalanta squad or if a permanent separation becomes inevitable.
