Ademola Lookman set for Atalanta comeback on one condition

Ademola Lookman could make a long-awaited return to action for Atalanta this weekend after a turbulent summer that saw him push for a transfer and clash with the club’s management. The Super Eagles forward’s availability hinges on one crucial condition: taking part in the team’s final training session before their Serie A clash with Lecce.

A summer of friction and uncertainty

Lookman’s off-season was anything but smooth. The 27-year-old, who has been one of Atalanta’s most influential players since his arrival in Bergamo, shocked fans and the club by formally requesting a transfer during the summer window. Inter Milan were among the suitors, tabling a €45 million bid for his services, but Atalanta rejected the offer — a decision that reportedly angered the player.

The situation escalated quickly. Lookman accused the club of going back on promises made to him about his future and claimed he was treated poorly on both a professional and personal level. The standoff led him to return to the UK, where he trained alone rather than joining his teammates for pre-season preparations.

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By the time he returned to Italy on August 19, Atalanta had wrapped up their pre-season friendlies and were already preparing for the Serie A opener without their star winger. The absence left questions about whether he would play any role in the early stages of the campaign or if a late transfer would materialize before the deadline.

No deal was struck, meaning Lookman remained an Atalanta player when the window shut. The challenge now for head coach Ivan Juric is reintegrating the Nigerian international into a squad that moved on without him during a critical period of preparation.

Training session will decide Lecce clash

According to Italian outlet Sky Sport Italia, Lookman’s potential return is imminent. He is expected to join the full group for training on Saturday, and if he does, he will likely be named in the squad for Sunday’s fixture against Lecce.

The club’s coaching staff views the training session as a key step in assessing his readiness, not just physically, but mentally, after a summer of strained relations. If he shows the required sharpness and commitment, it will mark his first appearance for Atalanta since the saga began.

Lookman has managed to keep himself in top condition despite the turmoil. He featured prominently for Nigeria during the international break, starting both World Cup qualifiers, a 1-0 victory over Rwanda and a 1-1 draw with South Africa, showing no signs of match rust.

For Atalanta, having Lookman back could provide a significant boost. The winger was the club’s joint top scorer last season and remains a crucial part of their attacking setup. His pace, creativity, and finishing ability were instrumental in their push for European football, and Juric will be eager to have those qualities back in the team as the season progresses.

The next 48 hours will therefore be decisive. If all goes according to plan on Saturday, fans may see Lookman back on the pitch in Bergamo, putting a chaotic summer behind him and refocusing on helping Atalanta compete on all fronts this season.