Ademola and Juric Settle Differences Ahead of Atalanta vs Sassuolo
Atalanta coach Ivan Juric confirmed that his disagreement with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has been resolved prior to their Serie A match against Sassuolo.
Juric’s Remarks on Lookman’s Status
During a pre-match press conference in Zingonia on Saturday, Juric stated that Lookman has been training consistently with the team following 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.
Comparisons and Relationship Building
Juric compared the situation with Lookman to an earlier incident involving goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi this season. He noted how such events sometimes strengthen 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 Prospects
Juric praised Lookman’s performance against Marseille despite his goal being disallowed before substitution.
“He suffered, but in Marseille he played an excellent game, and I hope he continues to rise.”
The 2024 African Footballer of the Year is set to join the Super Eagles training camp after the Serie A match against Sassuolo. He has been named in the 24-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs against Gabon in Morocco next week.
Author’s Summary
Ivan Juric and Ademola Lookman have resolved their conflict, with the forward praised for his strong form and upcoming involvement in Nigeria’s World Cup playoff squad.