Italian pundit slams Lookman for ‘always appearing so angry and aggressive’ after latest incident

Ademola Lookman (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)

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Ademola Lookman ends seven-game drought with stunner vs Milan. (Photo Credit: Atalanta/X)

Italian pundit slams Lookman for ‘always appearing so angry and aggressive’ after latest incident

Ayoola Kelechi 23:02 - 07.11.2025

Nigerian star Ademola Lookman has come in for more criticism after his recent bust up with Atalanta boss Ivan Juric

Italian football pundit Fabio Caressa has strongly criticised Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman following his angry reaction to being substituted during Atalanta’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Olympique Marseille.

The incident has reignited debate in Italy about player discipline and professionalism, with many suggesting Lookman’s attitude could begin to harm his relationship with coach Ivan Juric and teammates.

Lookman’s angry reaction sparks controversy in Italy

The drama unfolded in the 75th minute when Atalanta boss Ivan Juric decided to replace Lookman with Yunus Musah as the Italian side aimed to protect their narrow lead.

Lookman, visibly furious, stormed off the pitch and exchanged heated words with Juric, who appeared equally frustrated. The situation briefly escalated as Juric attempted to call Lookman to order, even grabbing his arm before teammates and staff intervened to calm things down.

Although the coach later downplayed the confrontation, describing it as a normal part of football, the images quickly spread across Italian media, drawing criticism from pundits and fans alike.

For a player who has become one of Atalanta’s key attacking figures, the incident painted a troubling picture, especially given his slow start to the season, with only one goal in nine appearances across all competitions.

Caressa questions Lookman’s attitude and professionalism

Fabio Caressa, one of Italy’s most respected football commentators, addressed the controversy, saying, “Always appearing so angry and aggressive isn’t good for anyone, not even him.”

He added that this kind of visible frustration was becoming a pattern for the Nigerian international. “After the summer we had, after you returned, always appearing so angry and aggressive doesn’t do anyone any good,” he continued, expressing disappointment in Lookman’s demeanour.

Caressa warned that Lookman’s repeated emotional outbursts could damage his standing within the club, saying, “In my opinion, it’s not the right attitude towards the club that pays you; he continues to have an unprofessional attitude.”

As Atalanta prepare to face Sassuolo before the international break, Lookman will have a chance to respond on the pitch, before joining the Super Eagles for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup playoff clash against Gabon in Morocco.