Atalanta Face Major Setback as Lookman Departs for AFCON Duty

Atalanta Face Major Setback as Lookman Departs for AFCON Duty

Atalanta will be without Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman for several crucial Serie A fixtures as the 28-year-old joins Nigeria for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Lookman, included in Eric Chelle’s 55-man provisional squad, has been a standout performer for Raffaele Palladino’s side, scoring in their 2–0 victory over Fiorentina and recording three goals in ten matches this season.

Should he make Nigeria’s final AFCON squad, his absence will come at a difficult period for the Bergamo outfit.

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Palladino Reacts to Lookman’s AFCON Call-Up

Manager Raffaele Palladino, speaking during his pre-match press conference, acknowledged that losing Lookman—alongside another key player—will be a major challenge. However, he noted that Kolasinac and Scalvini are set to return, and expressed hope that Sulemana will regain fitness soon as he wants “every player to feel involved.”

Matches Lookman Will Miss

Lookman’s call-up means he will miss several important matches for Atalanta. These include:

• Genoa (21 December) — same day AFCON kicks off
• Inter (3 January)
• Roma (7 January)
• Additional fixtures against Bologna, Torino, and Pisa
• A friendly or European tie against Athletic Club

The winger’s absence presents a significant setback for Atalanta, who must navigate a congested schedule without one of their most influential attackers.

Atalanta Face Major Setback as Lookman Departs for AFCON Duty