Former Super Eagles Star Offers Bold Advice to Lookman After Transfer Standoff With Atalanta Ends
- Yakubu Aiyegbeni has advised Ademola Lookman to stay focused and move past his failed transfer this summer
- Atalanta has reintegrated Lookman into the squad after summer tensions that saw the Nigerian frozen out
- The 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year winner is expected to play a key role in Atalanta’s title and European push this season
Former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has offered words of encouragement to Ademola Lookman after his publicised transfer standoff with Atalanta finally came to an end.
The 27-year-old winger, who was close to joining Inter Milan in the summer, saw his move blocked as Atalanta refused to sell him to a direct Serie A rival.
Source: Getty Images
Lookman, who had even tendered a transfer request to force the move, has now been reintegrated into the Atalanta squad and is set to play a key role in their campaign this season.
Yakubu offers bold advice to Lookman
According to Soccernet, Yakubu stressed that situations like Lookman’s are mentally tough for any player but urged the Super Eagles forward to put the saga behind him.
"I know situations like this can be very difficult for a player. When a move you were expecting doesn’t happen, it affects your state of mind. But I must commend Lookman for staying patient and Atalanta for welcoming him back in.
“For me, the most important thing is that he is back on the pitch, because that is where he can do what he does best, scoring goals and making an impact for his team."
Lookman’s comeback delights Yakubu
According to Footy Africa, Yakubu believes the resolution of the transfer saga is ultimately a win-win situation for Lookman and Atalanta.
"Atalanta need him, and he also needs Atalanta to keep pushing his career forward," Yakubu explained.
"It’s good to see they have found common ground, and I hope from here he can enjoy his football again, stay focused, and deliver the performances we all know he is capable of."
Lookman was a key figure in Atalanta’s run last season, scoring 20 crucial goals in both Serie A and European competitions.
His presence will be vital as Ivan Juric’s side aims to challenge for a Champions League spot and compete on multiple fronts.
Lookman set to lead Atalanta’s charge for titles
After weeks of tension, Lookman has resumed full training and made his first appearance of the season last week.
Source: Getty Images
His return could not have come at a better time, as Atalanta look to recover from a slow start to their domestic campaign.
Lookman made his first appearance for Atalanta in the 5-0 routing of Torino before also appearing as a substitute in their 1-1 draw away at Juventus on Saturday.
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Fans are hopeful that the Nigerian forward can rediscover the form that saw him become one of Serie A’s standout players last season.
Atalanta prepare reward for Lookman
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that Atalanta are preparing to reward Lookman with a new contract following his impressive performances and loyalty over the summer transfer window.
Lookman was one of the hottest attacking players during the last transfer window, attracting strong interest from Inter Milan and several Premier League clubs.
Source: Legit.ng
