Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman during an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa stated that he has a “great” relationship with new Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino following a turbulent period under the club’s previous managers.
Lookman revealed that his rapport with Palladino has been a positive change after enduring difficult spells with Ivan Juric and Gian Piero Gasperini.
Speaking about Palladino, who replaced Juric, Lookman was full of praise for the former Monza boss, who has overseen an upturn in results, including three consecutive victories capped by a 2-0 win over Torino.
“He’s a very good coach and we have a good rapport,” Lookman exclusively told Footy-Africa. “He’s doing a very good job and we are happy.”
Galatasaray prepare January moves both for Onyedika and Lookman
Despite the improved atmosphere in Bergamo, Lookman’s future at Atalanta remains uncertain. The 27-year-old is approaching the final stages of his contract and has been linked with moves to Galatasaray and Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.
Currently in Morocco with Nigeria for the Africa Cup of Nations, Lookman says his focus is firmly on international duty rather than speculation about a return to England.
The former Everton, Leicester City and Fulham forward was asked if he missed the Premier League and Craven Cottage, but insisted his attention is on the present.
“I’m always focused on the present and, at the moment, the present is being here in Morocco for AFCON and trying to help my country win the tournament,” he said. “All the experiences are in the past.”
Juric was sacked earlier this season after a poor start to the 2025-26 campaign, with reports of a strained relationship between the former Southampton manager and Lookman. The pair were notably separated on the touchline during a Champions League match. Lookman also saw his previously strong relationship with Gasperini deteriorate before the Italian coach departed Atalanta for Roma.
Ademola Lookman to Atletico: How much the Nigerian forward could cost
Lookman has been in outstanding form at AFCON 2025, scoring three goals and providing four assists to help Nigeria reach the semi-finals.
