Atalanta coach confirms Lookman trained with Primavera squad before first team return

Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has disclosed that Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman was temporarily dropped to train with the club’s youth side before being reinstated into the first team.

The Nigerian International was excluded from senior training during the summer after attempting to force a move to Serie A rivals Inter Milan.

Juric confirmed that the Super Eagles star had to regain sharpness with the Primavera squad before being considered for a return.

"After a period of training on his own and with the Primavera, he needs to regain top form," Juric told reporters ahead of Atalanta’s Serie A clash with Juventus.

"He's training well: we'll gradually increase his playing time until he's back to full fitness."

The forward made his comeback in Atalanta’s 3-0 win over Torino last weekend, coming on as a late substitute for new signing Kamaldeen Sulemana.

Since arriving at Atalanta, Lookman has been a standout in attack, earning widespread praise from fans after his hat-trick secured the Bergamo club’s UEFA Europa League triumph.

He will now look to rebuild momentum and restore his place as a regular starter under Juric.

Eric Chelle will also be hoping Lookman rediscover his best form ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin, to boost Nigeria’s slim hopes of reaching the tournament.

Adeyemi Adewale

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