Ivan Juric Reveals How Ademola Lookman Was Misguided During Inter Milan Transfer Saga

Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has revealed that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman received poor advice during the summer transfer window, which led to a failed move to Inter Milan.

Speaking after Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Torino in Serie A on Sunday, Juric addressed the circumstances surrounding Lookman’s attempted transfer, which created friction between the player and the club.

Lookman, 27, was at the center of a transfer standoff in August after Atalanta refused to sanction his move to Inter. In an effort to force the deal, the Super Eagles star reportedly submitted a transfer request and went absent without leave (AWOL).

Despite the tension, Lookman was named in the squad and made a late substitute appearance in the 87th minute against Torino.

Speaking to the media post-match, Juric shed light on the situation: “He spoke to me and the team on Monday. He was surrounded by people who had given him some bad advice,” the Atalanta boss said.

Juric praised Lookman’s mindset but emphasized the need for him to regain match fitness: “He has a great winning mentality, and now we need to get him back in shape physically.”

Lookman will now look to rebuild trust at the club and work his way back into the starting lineup as Atalanta pushes forward in the Serie A campaign.