Coach of Atalanta Raffaele Palladino has opened up on what led to the exit of Ademola Lookman from the club in the January transfer window, OwngoalNigeria.com reports.
The club were adamant that the forward won’t be sold until at least the summer, but his subsequent transfer to Atletico Madrid left many surprised by the U-turn on their initial stand.
While reacting to the exit of Lookman, Palladino said the Nigerian forced his way out by demanding to leave the club when he got offers from other teams during the January transfer window.
“Lookman had this offer towards the end of the transfer session, he asked to leave and wanted a change of scenery, so the club made him happy. I am very pleased with the team at my disposal, it is what we needed to face three tournaments. We were going to an away match when he left, so there wasn’t much time to say goodbye, but we wish him all the best for the future,” continued Palladino.
Lookman wasted no time in settling in his new environment with a goal and assist in his debut game against Real Betis in the Copa del Rey yesterday. He scored the third goal and assisted the fifth in the 5-0 win.
