Ademola Lookman’s former manager Raffaele Palladino has revealed that the Super Eagles forward made a request to leave Atalanta for Atletico Madrid late in the January transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
Lookman sealed a deadline day move from Bergamo to the Spanish capital after enjoying an outstanding campaign with Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The former African Player of the Year’s future at Atalanta was already a source of unending speculations even while he was away on international duty with Nigeria but the Nerazurri repeatedly dismissed talks of a potential exit.
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Despite Atalanta’s public stance, Lookman eventually joined Atleti on the final day of the winter transfer window and according to Palladino, the Super Eagles forward’s desire to move left La Dea with no choice but to sanction his departure.
What Raffaele Palladino said
“Lookman had this offer towards the end of the transfer session, he asked to leave and wanted a change of scenery, so the club made him happy,” Palladino told Sport Mediaset.
Despite losing one of the best players (if not the best) in his squad, Palladino remains confident the personnel available to him are more than capable of helping Atalanta achieve their objectives for the season.
“I am very pleased with the team at my disposal, it is what we needed to face three tournaments. We were going to an away match when he left, so there wasn’t much time to say goodbye, but we wish him all the best for the future.
“I am fortunate to have a strong and competitive squad, with many players of quality and technique, so I am spoilt for choice on who to start tomorrow.”
Lookman is settling in nicely and Atletico Madrid and may even get a chance to make his debut when Los Colchoneros take on Real Betis later tonight.
