Atalanta head coach Ivan Juric has urged Ademola Lookman to maintain the right attitude after the winger’s failed attempt to secure a summer move to Inter Milan.

The Nigerian international, who had his heart set on joining the Nerazzurri, reportedly handed in a transfer request after Atalanta rejected two bids from the Serie A giants. The drama escalated when Lookman went AWOL (absent without leave) for a period before eventually being reintegrated into the squad.

So far this season, the 27-year-old has struggled to rediscover his form — no goals or assists yet for La Dea — a sharp contrast to his explosive displays last term that made him one of Atalanta’s key attacking threats.

Juric’s Faith and Caution

Speaking to Sport Mediaset, Juric expressed cautious optimism about Lookman’s attitude:

“I hope that he will return from international duty with the same attitude that I saw in the last two or three weeks he worked with us, where I had no complaints.”

That line alone reveals a lot. It’s not just about talent — Juric wants discipline, focus, and commitment. The Croatian tactician seems willing to give Lookman a clean slate, but he’s also clearly watching for any signs of distraction.

Opinion: Lookman’s Crossroads — Redemption or Regression?

Ademola Lookman now finds himself at a career-defining moment. The winger’s journey has always been a blend of brilliance and unpredictability — from Everton to Leipzig, Fulham, Leicester, and now Atalanta. He’s shown flashes of genius, yet consistency has often been his toughest opponent.

His desire to move to a bigger club like Inter is understandable; every ambitious player dreams of testing himself at the highest level. But professionalism is what separates ambition from arrogance. Walking away from training and forcing a move rarely earns sympathy — especially in a team built on hard work and collective discipline.

Juric’s message seems like both a warning and an olive branch: keep your head down, work hard, and the rewards will follow. Lookman’s pace, creativity, and flair can light up any stadium — but without the right attitude, even the brightest spark can fade quickly.

Final Thoughts

Atalanta fans will be hoping that the international break helps Lookman reset mentally and return with the hunger that made him one of Serie A’s most exciting players last season.

For now, the ball — literally and figuratively — is in Lookman’s court. If he channels his frustration into performance, he could turn this rocky chapter into a comeback story worth cheering for. But if not, the summer’s transfer disappointment could linger longer than expected.