Palladino: Lookman Fit, Ready for Atalanta’s Champions League Clash with Bilbao
Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino has confirmed that Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman is fit and available for selection in their UEFA Champions League clash against Athletic Bilbao in Bergamo today.
Lookman, who was Nigeria’s standout performer at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with three goals and four assists, returned to his club ahead of schedule after national team duty.
Palladino praised the 2024 African Footballer of the Year’s commitment, revealing that the player cut short his rest period to rejoin the squad.
‘He’s fine, he came back Tuesday, I’m happy to have him back,’ Palladino said.
‘He was supposed to return tomorrow, but he wanted to return a day early, and the club provided him with transport to bring him home. I’m happy because he showed commitment, he finished his training, and he’ll be available.’
Atalanta are currently in the top eight of the League Phase of the Champions League, and a victory over the Spanish side could secure their place in the knockout rounds without the need for a playoff.
