'I don't have to beg him' – Atalanta coach suggests rift with Lookman remains unresolved

Atalanta coach Ivan Juric has suggested that tensions with Ademola Lookman remain unresolved after leaving the Nigerian forward out of his squad for the Serie A clash with Lecce.

Lookman, who spent much of the summer linked with a move to Inter Milan before the deal collapsed, has reportedly asked to train separately since returning from international duty. 

His absence adds fresh uncertainty to his future in Bergamo, despite the transfer window having already closed.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Juric made it clear he will not compromise his principles to accommodate the 27-year-old attacker. 

"This is an unpleasant, difficult situation. As a coach, what I feel is that we need other things: spirit, fight, humility, work, a sense of belonging," he was quoted as saying by Fanpage.

"On a human level, I want something different; I want a different sense of belonging, and we’ll continue like this.”

Juric then underlined that the club’s values must come before any single player. 

"I have a very good relationship with Lookman, but I don’t have to beg him to play,” he stressed. 

"It works the other way around. We are Atalanta, and he represents the city. What Atalanta represents is what we need: hard work, humility. 

"These are different values; I don’t have to beg anyone. We all believe that Atalanta needs strong human values.”

Lookman’s omission comes at a time when Atalanta is already adjusting following Mateo Retegui’s departure. 

The exclusion of one of Atalanta’s most decisive players, however, highlights the delicate challenge Juric faces as he seeks to instill his own philosophy after succeeding Gian Piero Gasperini. 

For now, Lookman’s situation remains a conundrum, with the coach unwilling to back down and Inter no longer pursuing the forward.

Whether this standoff signals a temporary disciplinary measure or the beginning of a prolonged rift will become clearer in the weeks ahead, but Juric’s comments suggest reconciliation is far from certain.

Wale Adejumo

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com