Ademola Lookman’s Return to Atalanta: A Potential Solution to Mounting Injury Woes
Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Player of the Year, is poised to make his first appearance for Atalanta this season after a period of exile from the first team. This potential return comes as a welcome relief for manager Ivan Juric, who is grappling with a growing list of injuries that has depleted his squad’s attacking options. Lookman’s reintegration into the team follows a summer transfer saga where he submitted a transfer request, ultimately failing to secure a move away from the club. This led to him training separately from the main squad for the majority of the pre-season and the beginning of the current campaign. However, recent reports suggest that Lookman has rejoined first-team training and could feature in Atalanta’s upcoming Serie A fixture against Torino.
Lookman’s potential return is timely, as Atalanta are currently facing a significant injury crisis. Defender Giorgio Scalvini is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a muscular injury to his right adductor during the club’s recent Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Initial assessments indicate that Scalvini will be unavailable for two to three weeks, ruling him out of crucial upcoming matches against Torino, Juventus, Club Brugge, and Como. Adding to Juric’s woes, the fitness of Charles De Ketelaere remains uncertain following his withdrawal during the PSG game. While medical tests haven’t revealed any major injuries, De Ketelaere’s availability for the Torino match is still in doubt.
These fresh injury concerns exacerbate an already lengthy injury list that includes Gianluca Scamacca, Ederson, Sead Kolasinac, and Mitchel Bakker. The depleted squad has created an opportunity for Lookman to re-establish himself in the team. The 27-year-old forward’s absence has been palpable, with Atalanta struggling to find their attacking rhythm in the early stages of the season. The club has managed just one victory in their opening four fixtures, highlighting the need for a spark in their offensive play.
Lookman’s earlier exile stemmed from his unsuccessful attempt to force a transfer to Serie A rivals Inter Milan during the summer transfer window. After Inter’s bid failed to meet Atalanta’s €50 million asking price, Lookman abstained from training for two weeks, signaling his discontent. Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi had previously stated that the club was ready to welcome Lookman back into the fold once he demonstrated full commitment. Now, with the team struggling and injuries piling up, the need for Lookman’s attacking prowess has seemingly overridden the previous standoff.
Lookman’s record for Atalanta speaks for itself. In the previous season, he netted an impressive 20 goals in 41 appearances, proving his value as a key attacking asset. His return will provide a much-needed boost to Atalanta’s attack, especially given the current injury predicament. Captain Marten De Roon has also publicly expressed the team’s willingness to reintegrate Lookman, stating that there would “always be an opening” for the talented winger. This suggests a positive atmosphere for Lookman’s return, fostering a sense of unity within the squad despite the earlier transfer saga.
The potential return of Ademola Lookman marks a significant turning point in Atalanta’s season. His presence offers a glimmer of hope for a team struggling with injuries and seeking to reignite their attacking potency. With Lookman back in the mix, Atalanta has a renewed chance to climb the Serie A table and compete effectively in their upcoming fixtures. His proven ability to score goals and create opportunities will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the current injury crisis and ensuring a successful campaign for La Dea. Furthermore, Lookman’s reintegration into the squad may signal a renewed sense of unity and focus within the team, crucial ingredients for overcoming adversity and achieving their goals for the season.
