Muriel: Lookman is Atalanta’s best player, will play key role Vs Real Madrid

Former Atalanta striker Luis Muriel believes Nigerian, Ademola Lookman will play a key role for La Dea when they host Real Madrid in a UEFA Champions League group phase game on Tuesday evening.

Atalanta will host the Los Blancos at the Gewiss stadium in Bergamo and a win over the inconsistent Spanish side will all but secure their continuing participation in the competition and Muriel reveals why Lookman has been the Serie A side’s best player.

‘He is currently the best player on the team because of his quality and consistency,’ Muriel told Gazzetta.

The 27-year-old has scored ten goals and provided five assists in 17 appearances across all competitions this season, including two goals in four Champions League games.

He was also La Dea’s hero last season when he netted the hat-trick that gave them their first European trophy, the Europa League.

Muriel is however confident Atalanta have the quality to face Real Mardid.

‘Real is always Real on paper, but the Spaniards were not impeccable in the first part of the season. With this condition, Atalanta can play on par and aim for victory.

‘I expect the usual Atalanta that keeps the ball, presses high and dominates proceeding.

‘They are so fit they could play like this even if they played the Barça of Messi, Suarez and Neymar,’ said the Colombian who now plays in the MLS for Orlando City SC.

Atalanta are unbeaten in the league phase of the competition and will be keen to extend to it six games on Tuesday night.