Ademola Lookman has finally returned to Atalanta training in Bergamo after a turbulent week dominated by speculation, controversy, and broken negotiations over a potential move to Inter Milan. The Super Eagles forward had been absent from team activities for several days, reportedly without permission, in what many interpreted as an attempt to force through a transfer.
The 27-year-old’s absence quickly became one of the most talked-about stories in Italian football. Lookman released a strongly worded statement during his stand-off, accusing Atalanta of reneging on promises and failing to treat him with the respect due to a professional athlete. “I have always given everything to this club, but certain assurances made to me have not been fulfilled,” he said. “As a human being and as a professional footballer, I believe I deserve fair treatment.”
Inter Milan Walk Away
Initially, Inter Milan looked like the frontrunners to secure his signature, with reports suggesting advanced talks had taken place. However, the Nerazzurri eventually withdrew from negotiations after failing to reach an agreement with Atalanta’s hierarchy. Sky Sport reported that the deal collapsed due to Atalanta’s strict conditions regarding any potential exit.
Club CEO Luca Percassi confirmed that Lookman was indeed given the possibility to leave this summer, but only under specific terms. “There was an agreement in place,” Percassi said. “However, it was very clear that such an opportunity could only arise for clubs of the highest level outside Serie A. This naturally made negotiations with Inter impossible.”
That stipulation effectively ruled out domestic suitors, leaving Lookman frustrated. His camp had hoped for more flexibility, especially given his importance to Atalanta’s strong campaign last season, where he delivered crucial goals and assists both in Serie A and Europe.
A Family Affair
Lookman’s return to training on Tuesday morning was notable not just because of the player’s presence, but also because he arrived accompanied by his father and a close friend. Their presence suggested that mediation and support were required to reintegrate him smoothly into the squad.
Eyewitnesses described the session as “intense but professional,” with Lookman participating fully despite the obvious tension surrounding his recent actions. His teammates, for their part, are said to have welcomed him back without incident, though the atmosphere around Zingonia remains cautious.
Awaiting Sanctions
While Lookman has returned, disciplinary measures appear inevitable. Atalanta are expected to fine the Nigeria international for his unauthorized absence, and a temporary exclusion from matchday squads has not been ruled out. The club’s leadership is keen to send a message that no player is above collective responsibility, particularly after such a public dispute.
Still, Lookman remains a vital figure in Gian Piero Gasperini’s plans. His pace, creativity, and directness were central to Atalanta’s attacking play last season. The question now is whether player and club can mend their fractured relationship quickly enough with the new Serie A campaign just days away.
Season Opener Looms
Atalanta kick off their league season at home against newly promoted Pisa on Sunday evening. The fixture, on paper, is one the Bergamo side will be expected to win comfortably, but the backdrop of the Lookman saga has shifted focus from preparations to controversy. Gasperini faces a decision: whether to punish his star forward further by excluding him from the squad, or to call on his talents immediately to ensure a strong start.
A Delicate Road Ahead
For Lookman, this episode has been a reminder of the complexities of modern football. A player may feel he has outgrown his current club, but contractual obligations and strategic decisions by management often make exits difficult. His dream of moving to a bigger stage, at least within Italy, is now on hold.
Atalanta, meanwhile, must balance discipline with pragmatism. Their ambitions in Serie A and Europe require Lookman at his best, but trust and professionalism must be rebuilt. How both sides navigate this sensitive period could determine whether the winger remains a cornerstone of their project or becomes a restless star plotting his next move.
For now, Ademola Lookman is back in training. But the storm surrounding his future is far from over.
