Atalanta Bergamo suffered a heavy 0-4 defeat against PSG at the Parc des Princes, a match that highlighted numerous defensive and offensive weaknesses in the Italian team. However, one player, until now absent, could soon provide a boost to the Lombard side: Ademola Lookman, 2024’s best African player, who had been at odds with his club and was close to a failed transfer to Inter Milan this summer. His notable absence during the match against PSG was widely felt, as the 27-year-old has often been decisive for Atalanta since his arrival in 2022.
After the defeat to PSG, a reconciliation between Lookman and his coach Ivan Jurić began, enabling the Nigerian to rejoin collective training and the UEFA list for the Champions League. This return marks a turning point in the tense relationship between the player and the club, especially following a period of silence and absence after the failed transfer to Inter Milan and disputes over unfulfilled promises. Lookman explained to his teammates that he was going through a difficult personal period before finding his role again within the squad.
This news is bad news for Olympique de Marseille, who will host Atalanta at the Vélodrome on November 5. Lookman has been a key player in recent seasons, capable of changing the game with his offensive impact. He notably scored in the Europa League semi-final second leg against Marseille and netted a hat-trick in the final against Leverkusen. His presence could significantly complicate matters for the Phocéens, especially as Atalanta seeks to reverse a difficult start in the Champions League.
Lookman’s return adds to Atalanta’s tactical needs, as the team has displayed significant defensive weaknesses early in the season, with problems in speed and coordination. These vulnerabilities were exploited by PSG and remain a point to fix for the upcoming matches against Marseille and other European and national fixtures. However, the regained creativity and efficiency up front with Lookman should provide an important additional weapon in Ivan Jurić’s arsenal.