Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has called on Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman to show greater commitment and rediscover his best form as the Italian Serie A resumes this weekend.
The Croatian tactician expressed confidence in the Super Eagles forward, urging him to maintain the positive attitude he has recently displayed during training.
“I hope that he will return from international duty with the same attitude that I saw in the last two or three weeks that he worked with us, where I had no complaints,” Juric told Sport Mediaset, as reported by Football Italia. “It was a great attitude, really positive, and I want to make up for the time we lost over the summer. He is not yet at his best, but I hope to see the right spirit from him.”
The 27-year-old forward endured a difficult summer following transfer speculation linking him with Inter Milan, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich. Despite several strong offers, Atalanta opted to keep him, leaving Lookman to stay in Bergamo with two years remaining on his contract.
His refusal to take part in pre-season preparations and the opening four league matches drew criticism from Juric, who publicly questioned his professionalism at the time. However, the winger has since returned to action, featuring in last month’s league encounter against Torino.
Lookman, who played a key role in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League triumph last season, has yet to register a goal or assist since his comeback. With competition for places heating up — particularly from Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana — the Nigerian international will need to rediscover his form quickly to retain his starting place.
Juric, however, remains optimistic that the Super Eagles star will soon hit his stride. The coach is expected to name Lookman in the squad for Atalanta’s upcoming clash against Lazio, with fans eager to see the forward back to his attacking best.
Lookman, who turns 28 later this month, has become one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers in Europe, known for his pace, creativity, and goal-scoring instinct. His form could be crucial not only for Atalanta’s campaign but also for Nigeria’s preparations ahead of key international fixtures.
