Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman has called on Atalanta to develop a sharper cutting edge after netting his first Serie A goal of the season in Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw against AC Milan at the Stadio di Bergamo.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year earned Man of the Match honours despite the dropped points, having cancelled out Samuele Ricci’s fourth-minute opener with a powerful finish into the roof of the net from Mario Pašalić’s assist.
Whilst pleased to return to the scoresheet, the 28-year-old forward emphasised the need for improvement across the squad.
“It feels good to be back and to help the team,” Lookman told DAZN after the match. “The most important thing is to keep improving because we need to grow as a group. What matters in the end is helping the team win matches.”
The Super Eagles star has endured a turbulent start to the campaign following a summer dominated by transfer speculation linking him with moves to Inter Milan and Bayern Munich. After those prospects collapsed, he initially struggled for form, making only a brief appearance against Torino before being omitted from the squad to face Juventus.
However, under new manager Ivan Jurić, who replaced Gian Piero Gasperini during the summer, Lookman has rediscovered his rhythm. The Nigerian has started six consecutive matches since forcing his way back into the side, gradually recapturing the form that made him one of Atalanta’s most dangerous attacking threats last season.
Jurić lavished praise on his rejuvenated forward, describing him as a player with exceptional qualities.
“Lookman is a fantastic player, maybe we pushed too hard to bring him back, but he gives everything when he plays,” the coach said. “He has great drive and a special quality. I’m very happy for him.”
The manager, however, shared his striker’s frustration at Atalanta’s inability to convert superiority into victories. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities against Milan, the hosts failed to secure all three points.
“There was only one team that should have won tonight,” Jurić added. “We created so many opportunities, but we need to become more clinical. I believe once that happens, everything will start to click.”
Atalanta remain unbeaten in Serie A this season with two victories and seven draws from nine matches. Whilst their defensive solidity has drawn plaudits, the lack of a killer instinct in front of goal has prevented them from mounting a serious challenge for the top four positions.
Lookman, whose contributions proved instrumental in securing Champions League qualification last term, will be expected to provide the clinical edge the team requires. His next opportunity comes on Saturday when Atalanta travel to face Udinese, where he will come up against compatriot Maduka Okoye.
