Atalanta fans slam 'ungrateful' Lookman despite imminent return

Ademola Lookman’s comeback to Atalanta’s first-team has sparked controversy, with sections of the fanbase accusing him of being “ungrateful.”

The Nigerian winger, once a key figure in Bergamo, faces a fractured relationship with supporters as he prepares to return.

Lookman has been sidelined since August after handing in a transfer request, following Atalanta’s decision to reject a €45m bid from Inter Milan.

His frustration spilled onto social media, where he criticised the club’s handling of the situation, before skipping much of pre-season.

The fallout left him frozen out of the squad by new boss Ivan Juric, until his surprise reintegration into first-team training this week.

However, fans in Bergamo made their feelings clear with a blunt banner: “No. 11 reintegrated but for us, you remain ungrateful.”

Atalanta president Antonio Percassi has tried to cool tensions, stressing that while Lookman’s ability is unquestioned, total commitment is non-negotiable.

“To play here you have to be 100% focused,” he said, hinting that forgiveness will depend on the forward’s attitude going forward.

The Super Eagles star, who excelled last season as Atalanta’s second-highest scorer, could still play a decisive role as the club juggles Serie A and European competition.

His performances on international duty with Nigeria show he remains sharp, but whether he can win back the Curva Nord remains to be seen. With January around the corner, the coming weeks may determine if Lookman’s future lies in Bergamo or elsewhere.