Getting back in shape was difficult - Italian Media criticise Ademola Lookman after Nigeria’s World Cup failure

Ademola Lookman is facing heavy criticism in Italy following a difficult start to the new campaign with Atalanta, further intensified by Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles were eliminated last week after losing the playoff final to DR Congo, adding to what has been a frustrating period for the forward.

In a scathing analysis, Stefano Agresti of Gazzetta dello Sport questioned Lookman’s form and mindset.

“The former Europa League king, the man who dragged Atalanta to its first European trophy, the 2024 African Ballon d’Or, has clearly lost his way,” Agresti wrote.

He linked Lookman’s struggles to the tense summer transfer window.

“The troubles began in the summer, when he decided to break ties with the Bergamo-based club to move to Inter. A blatant rupture because the player chose the most traumatic path, that of desertion,” he added.

“Getting back in shape was difficult. He has only scored one goal with La Dea, and with Nigeria, he suffered a national disappointment. Everything is wrong; he got everything wrong.”

Lookman was reportedly pushing for a transfer to Inter Milan, but Atalanta refused to negotiate below their €50 million valuation.

In protest, the Nigerian forward did not report for pre-season duties and removed all Atalanta-related images from his Instagram page.

The fallout led to him being sidelined for several weeks. Since returning to the squad, the 28-year-old has found it difficult to rediscover his best level, scoring just one goal in ten appearances across all competitions this season.