HOW MOVING TO ATALANTA TRANSFORMED LOOKMANS CAREER.
BBC Sport's Nedum Onuoha visits Bergamo to meet Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman and explore how his move to Italy has influenced his life and career. The Nigerian international, who joined the Serie A side in 2022, has quickly become an integral part of Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, thriving in a league renowned for its tactical demands and defensive discipline.
For Lookman, the transition to Italy marked a new chapter in his career. After stints in England and Germany, where he played for clubs like Everton, Fulham, and RB Leipzig, the forward sought a fresh challenge in Serie A. His move to Atalanta provided an opportunity to refine his skills under Gasperini’s guidance while adapting to the nuances of Italian football.
In Bergamo, Lookman has embraced the city’s culture and the club’s unique footballing philosophy. Known for their high-intensity pressing and attacking style, Atalanta’s approach has allowed the winger to showcase his speed, creativity, and finishing ability. The system not only suits his natural talents but also challenges him to grow tactically and defensively, areas he acknowledges as vital for his development.
During his conversation with Onuoha, Lookman reflects on how the experience has shaped him both on and off the pitch. Living in a different country has pushed him out of his comfort zone, but he credits the welcoming atmosphere at Atalanta and the warmth of the Bergamo community for helping him settle. He describes the club as a family, emphasizing the camaraderie among teammates and the support he receives from fans.
Lookman also highlights how Serie A’s emphasis on strategy and positioning has deepened his understanding of the game. He explains that working under a meticulous coach like Gasperini has taught him to analyze matches more critically and to approach each game with greater tactical awareness.
The move to Atalanta has undoubtedly elevated Lookman’s career. His performances in Serie A have earned him recognition as one of the league’s standout players, while his growing influence for Nigeria on the international stage reflects his development. As he continues to flourish in Italy, Lookman’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to embrace new challenges.
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