Ademola Lookman was involved in a fiery confrontation with his Atalanta manager, Ivan Juric, during Wednesday night’s Champions League clash against Marseille, which Atalanta won 1-0.
The 28-year-old Nigerian winger, who was substituted in the 75th minute with the score tied at 0-0, appeared visibly frustrated as he left the pitch. An exchange of words with Juric quickly escalated when the coach grabbed Lookman, prompting CEO Luca Percassi and teammate Marten de Roon to step in and prevent the situation from intensifying.
Lookman looked shocked and angered by the manager’s physical reaction. After the game, the pair reportedly spoke again, though it is unclear whether this was an attempt to resolve the dispute or a continuation of the argument, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
This is not the first time Lookman has been at the centre of controversy at Atalanta. Since joining the club in 2022, the former Everton and RB Leipzig winger has become a key player, scoring 40 goals in 99 appearances and even netting a hat-trick in a Europa League final.
Earlier this year, he clashed publicly with former Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who criticized him after a Champions League loss to Club Brugge, calling him “one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen.” Lookman responded on social media, describing the treatment as “deeply disrespectful” despite his commitment and hard work for the club.
The summer transfer window also saw tension as Lookman sought a move, with Inter Milan reportedly offering £32 million, alongside interest from PSG and other top clubs. Lookman publicly accused Atalanta of blocking his exit despite agreeing offers, citing months of broken promises and poor treatment. Ultimately, the move did not materialize, and he has returned to the squad, featuring in eight matches this season.
The latest incident with Juric has reignited speculation that a January transfer may be the best solution for both player and club. Despite the tensions, Lookman remains one of Atalanta’s most influential players, having revived his career since leaving England, where a £7.5 million move to Everton failed to take off.
Lookman began at Charlton Athletic, represented England at youth levels, and later switched to Nigeria at senior level. His £13 million transfer to Atalanta has proven a bargain, though his future may hinge on whether he can reconcile with Juric in the coming weeks.
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