Ademola Lookman recently experienced a heated confrontation with his Atalanta manager, Ivan Juric, during a Champions League match. This incident occurred on Wednesday night, as Lookman was substituted in the 75th minute of the game against Marseille, which Atalanta won 1-0 with a late goal.
Details of the Confrontation
The exchange between Lookman and Juric became intense when Lookman walked past the coach and appeared to say something. Juric reacted by grabbing Lookman’s arm, leading to a tense standoff until a staff member stepped in to defuse the situation.
Background of Lookman and Juric
- Lookman has played for clubs such as Charlton Athletic, Fulham, and Leicester City before joining Atalanta.
- Juric previously managed Southampton, where he lasted just 107 days before the team’s relegation from the Premier League.
This confrontation is not the first for Lookman at Atalanta. He has faced criticism from former manager Gian Piero Gasperini, who labeled him “one of the worst penalty takers I have ever seen” after Lookman failed to score a penalty against Club Brugge earlier this year.
Lookman’s Challenges at Atalanta
Throughout the season, Lookman has encountered several difficulties within the club. He publicly defended himself against Gasperini’s comments, calling them “disrespectful.”
Transfer Request
Lookman attempted to leave Atalanta during the summer transfer window after several clubs expressed interest. However, the club rejected an offer from Serie A rivals Inter Milan. In a social media statement, Lookman expressed his frustration over the management’s failure to allow his departure despite earlier discussions about a potential move.
His situation at Atalanta remains precarious as the club currently sits in 11th place in Serie A. Lookman’s altercation with Juric highlights the challenges he faces as he continues his tenure, which began three years ago.
