Lookman Returns to Full Training Ahead of Crucial Champions League Clash
• Ademola Lookman has been spotted in full team training with Atalanta ahead of their UEFA Champions League playoff match against Club Brugge
• The Nigerian forward has been sidelined with a knee injury since before Atalanta’s group stage finale against Barcelona
• His expected return was initially scheduled for the end of February
Ademola Lookman is on the verge of making his much-anticipated return to action after recovering from a knee injury that has kept him sidelined. The Nigerian international was seen participating in full training sessions with his Atalanta teammates, boosting the team’s prospects ahead of their crucial European fixture.
The injury occurred just before Atalanta’s final UEFA Champions League group stage match against Barcelona, which ended in a draw. The club had confirmed that Lookman’s knee injury would keep him out of action until the end of February, dealing a significant blow to the Europa League holders.
The impact of Lookman’s absence has been evident in Atalanta’s recent form. Statistics from Transfermarkt reveal that Gian Piero Gasperini’s side managed just one victory in six matches during his absence – a 5-0 win over Hellas Verona.
Critical Return for Atalanta’s European Campaign
While Lookman was expected to feature in the recent league match against Cagliari, he wasn’t included in the squad for the goalless draw. However, footage shared by journalist Giulia Mazzoleni showed the reigning African Footballer of the Year participating in full training alongside teammate Sead Kolasinac, who was also returning from injury.
The timing of Lookman’s return couldn’t be more crucial for Atalanta. The Italian side faces an uphill battle in their Champions League playoff second leg against Club Brugge, having lost the first leg 2-1 in Belgium. They need a victory by at least a two-goal margin to advance to the next round.
During his pre-match press conference, Manager Gasperini, speaking alongside Davide Zappacosta, confirmed Lookman’s inclusion in the squad for the upcoming match. However, the extent of his involvement remains uncertain.
The importance of Lookman to Atalanta’s success was recently highlighted when Gasperini acknowledged how much the team missed the Nigerian star following their 1-0 Coppa Italia elimination by Bologna. The coach emphasized that the team has struggled in certain areas without one of their most influential players of the past two seasons.
• Lookman’s return could be pivotal for Atalanta’s Champions League aspirations
• The team needs to overturn a 2-1 deficit against Club Brugge
• His presence could provide the attacking spark the team has been missing
Ready to witness Ademola Lookman’s potential return to action? Don’t miss Atalanta’s crucial Champions League clash against Club Brugge – follow the match live for all the exciting updates!
