‘We have strong team despite Lookman’s exit’, insists Atalanta coach

Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has insisted he has a strong team at his disposal despite the exit of Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman.

Lookman completed his €35 million plus €5 million transfer to Atlético Madrid this week, after four successful seasons at the Gewiss Stadium.

The 28-year-old became a fan favourite at the Bergamo outfit during his stay, scoring 55 times and registering 27 assists in 137 appearances.

The former African footballer of the year was the hero behind the club’s UEFA Europa League triumph in Dublin in 2024, netting a hat-trick in the 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen.

Speaking ahead of Atalanta’s quarter-final clash with Juventus in the Coppa Italian, Palladino revealed that Lookman had an offer and decided to make a move.

“It’s a dynamic that’s part of today’s football. Lookman received this important request, he expressed his desire to take it up, and he chose Atlético Madrid,” he said according to Tutto Atalanta.

“We must respect his decision and thank him for what he’s given. We look forward with the strong players we have at our disposal and with the desire to continue to amaze.”

Lookman will hope to make his debut for Atlético Madrid today when they face Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter final.