Ademola Lookman’s fallout with Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has intensified speculation about his future at the club.
The altercation occurred during Atalanta’s 1–0 Champions League win over Marseille when Juric angrily grabbed the Nigerian winger on the touchline after substituting him.
Lookman, who has been instrumental for Atalanta with 53 goals and 25 assists in 127 appearances, appeared shocked as teammates and staff intervened to separate the pair. Fans on social media quickly condemned Juric’s actions, calling them “disrespectful” and urging Lookman to leave the club.
The reigning African Player of the Year had already clashed with Atalanta’s management last summer after the club blocked his move to Inter Milan, despite a £32 million offer.
Former Watford striker Troy Deeney, reacting on CBS Sports, said the confrontation likely ended their working relationship.
“When you put your hands on someone, there’s nothing you can say after that,” he remarked. Fellow pundit Nigel Reo-Coker agreed, saying Juric had “crossed the line” and “lost all authority” by physically confronting his player.
