Ademola and Juric Resolve Rift Ahead of Atalanta vs Sassuolo
Atalanta coach Ivan Juric confirmed that his disagreement with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has been settled ahead of their Serie A match against Sassuolo.
Pre-Match Conference Insights
During a press conference on Saturday in Zingonia, Juric mentioned that Lookman has been training regularly since their UEFA Champions League win over Marseille.
“He always works well; that reaction is something that can happen now and then,” Juric said, as quoted by La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Past Incidents and Relationship Building
Juric compared the situation with Lookman to an earlier one involving goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi, emphasizing that such incidents can strengthen team relationships.
“Ademola is unusual; you get over it. And sometimes these incidents help improve relationships: with Carnesecchi, we’ve opened up, and I feel much closer to him now.”
Lookman's Performance and Future
The coach praised Lookman’s performance in the Marseille match, despite having a goal disallowed before being substituted.
“He suffered, but in Marseille he played an excellent game, and I hope he continues to rise.”
Lookman, named 2024 African Footballer of the Year, is expected to join the Nigerian national team's training camp after the Serie A game, preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs against Gabon in Morocco.
Key Facts
- Lookman has resumed regular training post Champions League match.
- Juric sees past conflicts as opportunities for stronger bonds.
- Lookman will join Nigeria's squad for World Cup playoffs following the Serie A fixture.
Summary: Atalanta coach Ivan Juric and Ademola Lookman have patched up their differences, with Lookman showing strong form ahead of important Serie A and World Cup qualifier matches.