Juric less concerned over Lookman saga, focuses on PSG clash

Atalanta coach Ivan Juric has downplayed the controversy surrounding Ademola Lookman as the Serie A side prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain in their Champions League group stage opener.

The Nigerian winger was left out of Atalanta’s 23-man travelling squad for the clash at Parc des Princes, raising more questions over his future.

Lookman has yet to feature this season after a failed summer transfer to Inter Milan, and has since been training away from the main group.

‘We’re very calm’

Speaking to Sky Sport on the eve of the game, Juric insists the club is handling the situation internally and that focus remains firmly on the European challenge.

“The Lookman scandal? We’re very calm, we talked to him and we’ve been clear,” Juric said, as reported by fcinter1908. “We’re only thinking about tomorrow’s match.”

The Croatian tactician stressed that Atalanta’s preparation would not be overshadowed by off-field matters. “Our priority is the game, and the group is united. That is the most important thing.”

A key absentee

Lookman, 27, has been one of Atalanta’s standout performers since joining in 2022, contributing vital goals in both Serie A and Europe.

Recall the Nigerian international single-handedly scored the hat-trick that worn the side the Europa League in 2024, their first ever European title.

The final against Bayer Leverkusen saw Lookman become the sixth player to score a hat trick in a European cup final.

Champions League test

Atalanta head into the fixture against defending champions PSG knowing the scale of the task at hand.

Juric has confirmed a 23-man squad, with new signings and senior regulars expected to shoulder the burden against a star-studded opponent.