Nigerian international and reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, has called on his club, Atalanta BC, to demonstrate greater consistency and clinical precision following their 1–1 draw with AC Milan in a Serie A fixture on Tuesday night, where he scored his first league goal of the season.
Lookman, who was named Man of the Match for his outstanding display at the Stadio di Bergamo, restored parity for the hosts in the first half after Samuele Ricci had given Milan an early lead in the fourth minute. The Nigerian forward equalised with a well-taken finish into the roof of the net, courtesy of an assist from Mario Pašalić.
Speaking to DAZN after the encounter, the 28-year-old expressed satisfaction with his return to the scoresheet but emphasised the need for collective improvement within the team.
“It feels good to be back and to help the team,” Lookman stated. “The most important thing is to keep improving because we need to grow as a group. What matters in the end is helping the team win matches.”
The forward has endured a mixed start to the campaign, following a summer transfer window during which he was linked with potential moves to Inter Milan and Bayern Munich. After those moves failed to materialize, Lookman initially struggled to regain full form, making only brief appearances early in the season before regaining fitness and confidence.
Under the guidance of new head coach Ivan Jurić, who succeeded Gian Piero Gasperini during the off-season, Lookman has since re-established himself as a key component of Atalanta’s attacking setup, starting six consecutive matches and displaying signs of his trademark sharpness and creativity.
Coach Jurić lauded Lookman’s contribution, commending his energy, mentality, and influence on the pitch.
“Lookman is a fantastic player — maybe we pushed too hard to bring him back, but he gives everything when he plays. He has great drive and special quality. I’m very happy for him,” the coach remarked.
Jurić, however, expressed frustration that Atalanta, despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, failed to secure maximum points.
“There was only one team that should have won tonight,” he said. “We created so many opportunities, but we need to become more clinical. Once that happens, everything will start to click.”
Atalanta remain unbeaten in Serie A, with two victories and seven draws so far. While the team’s defensive solidity has earned widespread commendation, their inability to convert dominance into wins has been a persistent concern.
Lookman, instrumental in Atalanta’s Champions League qualification last season, is expected to play a pivotal role again this campaign as the club targets a top-four finish. The Super Eagles forward will aim to build on his renewed form when Atalanta face Maduka Okoye’s Udinese in their next league fixture on Saturday.#newsafro_
