Atalanta appoints Ivan Juric as head coach amid uncertainty over Lookman’s future

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye

Atalanta have named Ivan Juric as their new head coach following the departure of Gian Piero Gasperini, ending an eight-year tenure that saw the club rise to prominence in Italian and European football.

The managerial change comes at a crucial time for the club, with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman’s future at the Gewiss Stadium now uncertain. Lookman played a key role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph this season, including a standout performance in the final, but his long-term commitment to the club remains unresolved.

Tensions between Lookman and Gasperini earlier this year—sparked by a missed penalty in a UEFA Champions League clash against Club Brugge—reportedly strained their relationship, though it was eventually patched up. Gasperini’s exit may now influence the forward’s next move.

Several top European clubs, including Barcelona, Juventus, and Liverpool, are reportedly monitoring the 26-year-old, though no formal offers have been tabled. With Lookman entering a decisive phase of his career, it remains to be seen whether Juric’s appointment will convince him to stay or trigger a move abroad.

Juric joins Atalanta after a brief and unsuccessful stint at Southampton, who were relegated from the Premier League. A clause in his contract allowed him to leave the club, and he now returns to Serie A, where he previously managed Torino and Hellas Verona.

Atalanta will hope Juric’s experience in Italian football and reputation for tactical discipline can sustain the momentum built under Gasperini and help stabilize the squad ahead of the new season.