Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has disclosed the simple approach that helped revitalise the form of Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, following a difficult start to the season, Soccernet.ng reports.
Lookman endured a turbulent summer after being denied a move to Inter Milan, and his struggles continued into the new campaign. Under former coach Ivan Juric, the 28-year-old managed just one goal in 11 appearances and was involved in an infamous touchline altercation with the Croatian during a match against Marseille.
Atalanta later parted ways with Juric and appointed Palladino, who lost his first match against Napoli but has since overseen back-to-back victories over Eintracht Frankfurt and Fiorentina. Lookman scored in both wins, ending a long drought that stretched back to last season.
Palladino Pleased With Strong Start, The two victories have moved the 2024 Europa League champions to within ten points of the Serie A top four. Reflecting on his early impact, Palladino expressed satisfaction with how the squad responded to the managerial change.
“It’s been a good week, with a win in the Champions League and another in Serie A, which had been missing for a while,” he told Sky Sport Italia. “We faced opponents who were very competitive, but we showed patience and created several chances.”
He added that the team still faced defensive risks, but their attacking efficiency proved decisive.
“The credit goes to the players. I only brought my ideas and tactical principles. When a coach changes, morale is often low, so I tried to establish dialogue, even friendship, and make sure everyone felt responsible.”
Palladino emphasised that Atalanta’s early improvement came from collective unity rather than any dramatic intervention.
“I don’t have a magic wand. I just tried to give the team an identity. The players feel involved, and that spirit is what I want to see. We took risks today, but I appreciated their courage.”
How Lookman’s Revival Began
Lookman’s improved performances, both in attack and defence have been evident since Palladino’s arrival, with the winger now looking more confident and in sync with his teammates. According to the Atalanta coach, the turnaround began with a straightforward one-to-one discussion.
“With Lookman, I did what I did with everyone else: I spoke to him individually,” Palladino told Tutto Atalanta. “Just a few words were enough. He’s intelligent and understands quickly.”
He explained that both he and Lookman share a clear ambition:
“We want to go in the same direction and push Atalanta as high as possible. He’s doing a great job offensively, but I also value his defensive work—he’s fully involved.”
Palladino also praised Charles De Ketelaere, Gianluca Scamacca and the squad’s other forwards, adding that he “believes blindly” in his attacking options.
Lookman’s resurgence will be welcomed by the Nigerian national team as they prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Eagles hope to challenge for the title.
