Atalanta head coach Ivan Jurić has described the situation surrounding Ademola Lookman as “unpleasant and not beautiful” after the forward missed Sunday’s 4-1 win over Lecce.
Goals from Giorgio Scalvini, Nicolas Zalewski and Charles De Ketelaere gave the La dea their first victory under Jurić at the Gewiss Stadium.
Lookman, however, was not included in the squad despite returning to training following the international break.
The Nigerian international had been separated from the group after trying to force a move to Inter Milan earlier in the summer. Atalanta refused to sanction the transfer and only recently lifted his training ban.
Asked about his availability for Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, Jurić said:
“Lookman in Paris? I think not, the situation is unpleasant and not beautiful. We need ready-made guys who want to give a lot to the shirt.”
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Ademola Lookman won the Europa League with Atalanta in the 2023/2024 season. (Photo credit: Getty Images)
Lookman played for Nigeria in their recent World Cup qualifiers but has not featured for Atalanta since May, when he appeared against Parma.
His absence continues to raise doubts over his role in the squad as the club returns to Europe’s top competition.
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Despite the uncertainty, Jurić is relishing his first campaign in the Champions League.
“It will be a great joy to face PSG, the strongest team in the world at the moment. We will have to be perfect, hoping they are not at their best. We are confident we can do well. It will be nice for me, as it will be my first time in the Champions League.”
Atalanta head to Paris on Wednesday for their Group Stage opener.
