Atalanta manager Ivan Juric blames Nigeria duty for Ademola Lookman’s slow start to season

Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has partly blamed Ademola Lookman’s slow start to the 2025/26 football campaign to national team commitment.

The reigning Africa Footballer of the Year has had a quiet beginning to the season, failing to register a goal or assist in his first six appearances after a summer where a potential move to Inter Milan didn’t happen.

Lookman finally found the back of the net in the recent 1-1 draw against AC Milan, a breakthrough that came after a tough spell.

Despite praising Lookman’s qualities, Juric has highlighted the disruption caused by his international duties.

“He’s coming off a difficult period, and he’s worked little in recent weeks, partly due to his national team commitments,” Juric stated. He explained that he gave Lookman significant playing time to “help him regain his rhythm and confidence.”

The coach expressed optimism about Lookman’s progress, believing he is getting back to his best. “He can be decisive both from the start and during the game,” Juric added. “He just needs to continue to grow, but I see him increasingly becoming part of the team.”