Lookman Omitted from Atalanta Squad for Serie A Opener Amid Transfer Fallout

Atalanta have confirmed their 23-man squad for the opening fixture of the 2025–26 Serie A season against newly-promoted Pisa, with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman notably excluded following a turbulent summer.

Lookman had been the subject of a €45 million bid from Inter Milan, which Atalanta rejected.

The failed move prompted the Super Eagles star to submit a formal transfer request, accompanied by a public statement accusing the club of reneging on promises and mistreating him both professionally and personally.

Club CEO Luca Percassi later clarified that Lookman was only permitted to leave if a suitable offer arrived from a top club outside Serie A.

In protest, Lookman took an unauthorized two-week leave to the UK, awaiting Inter’s next move.

However, the Nerazzurri ultimately shifted focus and signed midfielder Andy Diouf instead.

Now back in Bergamo, Lookman is training individually and has been left out of the squad for Sunday’s clash.