Atalanta Sweats Over Ademola Lookman’s Fitness Ahead of Crucial Club Brugge Clash
Atalanta’s hopes of overturning their UEFA Champions League round of 16 playoff deficit against Club Brugge could take a hit as star forward Ademola Lookman remains a major doubt for the decisive second leg.
The Super Eagles winger missed the first leg due to a knee injury, despite making progress in training before the match. Without him, Atalanta struggled in attack and ultimately fell 2-1, conceding a last-minute penalty converted by Gustaf Nilsson.
Coach Gian Piero Gasperini had expressed optimism that a comeback was possible if both Lookman and defender Sead Kolasinac were available for the return leg. However, Lookman was expected to at least make the bench in Atalanta’s weekend fixture but was absent once again, raising concerns about his availability.
The Nigerian international did participate in light training on Sunday, but his match fitness remains uncertain. A late fitness test will determine whether he can feature in what is a must-win game for Atalanta.
Lookman has been a key figure for the Italian side in the Champions League this season, contributing six goal involvements in as many games. His speed, creativity, and finishing ability have been crucial to Atalanta’s attacking play, and his absence would be a significant blow as they seek to overturn the deficit against a disciplined Club Brugge side.
Atalanta’s medical team will continue to monitor his progress closely, but with so much on the line, the club will need to decide whether to risk him or preserve him for future battles.
