Great Opportunity – Atalanta coach hails Lookman ahead of Athletic Club clash

Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has praised Ademola Lookman’s dedication to the club after the forward cut short his international schedule to be available for Wednesday’s Champions League showdown against Athletic Club.

Lookman’s swift return from the Africa Cup of Nations provides a timely boost for Atalanta as they continue an impressive Champions League campaign.

The Nigerian forward has been a key figure in their European form.

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Atalanta currently sit fifth in the Champions League league phase standings with 13 points after six matches, level with Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, who occupy third and fourth place respectively.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Palladino revealed that Lookman was not due back until later in the week but insisted on returning early to feature in the pivotal European fixture.

“On paper, he was supposed to return tomorrow,” Palladino said. “But he wanted to play in this game at all costs. He’s showing a sense of attachment to this team, and I’m very happy about that.”

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Despite their strong showing in Europe, including six wins since a defeat to Chelsea, Atalanta were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Serie A strugglers Pisa over the weekend.

Palladino, however, stressed that the team must quickly refocus and build on the momentum developed over recent months.

“We’ll start again with the spirit that we’ve had over the last two months,” he said.

He added, “The Champions League gives you a big competitive charge, but that should also be the case in the league. We have a great opportunity to do well tomorrow.”