Former Nigerian international, Victor Ikpeba has weighed in on the ongoing transfer drama involving Ademola Lookman and Atalanta.
Lookman, 27, enjoyed a brilliant 2023/24 campaign that saw him lead Atalanta to UEFA Europa League glory, famously scoring a hat-trick in the final against Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
His outstanding season was later rewarded with the CAF African Player of the Year award.
However, tensions appear to have surfaced between the Nigerian and the club hierarchy, with reports suggesting a potential exit is on the cards.
Despite that, Ikpeba believes Lookman should handle the situation with patience.
“These things happen in football. At the end of the day, the clubs own the players — they call the shots,” Ikpeba told Brila.net.
“Lookman and Atalanta had a beautiful relationship. They won a trophy, and he was crowned African Player of the Year. But like in life, some marriages end badly.”
The ex-Super Eagles forward urged the player to remain professional and composed amid the uncertainty surrounding his future.
“I don’t know the full story, but I believe his representatives and close circle should advise him to stay calm and handle things properly. He should not stop training. It’s always better to part ways on good terms to maintain relationship. He’s already a legend at Atalanta.”
Lookman scored 20 goals in all competitions for Atalanta in the 2024/25 season, continuing his fine form despite the growing uncertainty about his long-term future in Bergamo.
