Super Eagles have expressed their full support for forward Ademola Lookman following his public fallout with Italian club Atalanta over a blocked transfer.
Lookman, 27, announced on Sunday via his verified Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) accounts that he had officially submitted a transfer request to leave Atalanta at the end of the season. In his emotionally charged statement, the Nigerian international accused the club of going back on prior agreements and treating him poorly.
“After many months of broken promises and what I feel has been poor treatment towards me as both a human being and as a professional footballer, I have submitted a transfer request,” Lookman wrote.
The Super Eagles were quick to show solidarity with the player, reposting his message and declaring their support on their official X handle, saying:
“We stand with Ademola Lookman @Alookman.”
A Transfer Battle Brewing
Lookman revealed that he had previously reached an understanding with Atalanta’s ownership that this summer would mark the end of his journey with the club. However, despite a concrete offer widely reported to be from Serie A rivals Inter Milan, Atalanta has allegedly blocked the move.
“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment with what I believe had been discussed, sadly, the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” he added.
The Nigerian winger, who enjoyed a stellar 2023/24 campaign and played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s Europa League success, insists he has tried to resolve the issue behind the scenes. Now, he says he feels compelled to speak out publicly.
“Sadly, I feel I have no choice but to speak out for what I believe is right. It had already been decided that it was the right time for me to move on and experience a new adventure.”
Lookman’s Next Move?
Lookman has reportedly attracted strong interest from Inter Milan, who view him as a key addition to bolster their attacking options. However, Atalanta’s reluctance to sanction the move has led to increasing tension between club and player.
As the saga unfolds, Lookman’s stance has drawn sympathy and support from fans and teammates alike, with the Super Eagles’ public endorsement marking a rare but strong statement of national backing for a player in club conflict.
Lookman joined Atalanta in 2022 from RB Leipzig and has since become one of the club’s standout performers, including a memorable hat-trick in the 2024 UEFA Europa League final.
