Ademola Lookman quits Atalanta camp, leaves with full training gear amid growing rift

By Dayo Awoniyi

Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman’s turbulent relationship with Atalanta appears to be nearing a breaking point, as new reports suggest the Super Eagles star has gone AWOL from the club’s activities.

According to Italian journalist Stefano Nebuloni, Lookman, 26, has left his residence in Bergamo and is believed to have departed Italy altogether. The forward has not communicated his whereabouts to the club, with some sources speculating that he may have retreated to a more secluded location to recover from a lingering calf injury.

Lookman’s absence from training has raised eyebrows, as he missed two sessions earlier this week and risks further repercussions if he fails to report for today’s session. Under Italian labor laws, Atalanta would be within their rights to withhold his wages should his absence continue without prior approval.

The Nigerian international, who was pivotal in Atalanta’s UEFA Europa League campaign last season, has been increasingly unsettled amid an ongoing dispute with the club that could pave the way for a shock departure.

Atalanta officials are reportedly aware that they may lose Lookman but intend to maintain control over any potential transfer, ensuring they do not lose him on unfavorable terms.

Lookman, who has been a consistent scorer since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022, is a highly coveted asset, with top European clubs reportedly keeping tabs on the forward.

His absence, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding his future, has left Atalanta supporters fearing the end of an era that has seen the Nigerian forward become one of the club’s most influential players.

As the situation continues to unfold, the question of whether Lookman will return to Bergamo—or leave for pastures new—remains a pressing issue.