Atalanta prepare for Ademola Lookman’s long-awaited return against Lecce

Atalanta are poised to welcome back Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, with the striker in contention to feature for the first time this season in Sunday’s Serie A clash against Lecce.

Lookman, who has been away on international duty with Nigeria, returned to Italy earlier this week after playing 75 minutes in the World Cup qualifier against Rwanda and completing the full 90 minutes in the subsequent fixture against South Africa.

His involvement in both matches has offered Atalanta encouragement that he is edging closer to full match fitness.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 26-year-old’s condition was assessed positively on his arrival in Bergamo, with no lingering concerns over fatigue or injury.

Despite this, Lookman has so far trained individually rather than joining full team sessions, as the club’s medical staff and coaching team carefully monitor his recovery following his international exertions.

The decision on whether Lookman will be included in the matchday squad is expected to be taken on Saturday afternoon. Atalanta head coach Ivan Zuric is understood to be weighing the striker’s readiness against the demands of a busy domestic schedule.

Zuric has emphasised in the past the importance of managing returning players carefully, particularly when they have featured heavily in international fixtures.

For Atalanta supporters, the potential return of Lookman represents a significant boost. The Nigerian forward has been one of the club’s most influential players in recent campaigns, contributing goals, creativity and pace in the final third.

His absence at the start of the season has been felt keenly, and his imminent comeback will provide Zuric with more attacking options as Atalanta look to establish consistency in Serie A.

Lookman’s international performances have also drawn praise, with his ability to carry attacking threat against both Rwanda and South Africa underlining his value to Nigeria’s national team.

That momentum could now prove beneficial for Atalanta as they prepare for a run of fixtures in both the league and European competition.

The fixture against Lecce comes at a pivotal time for Atalanta, who have experienced mixed fortunes in the opening weeks of the campaign.

The addition of Lookman, even if only from the bench, could inject much-needed dynamism to their frontline. His versatility allows him to operate across the attack, giving Zuric greater flexibility in tactical approach.

While Lookman’s immediate role remains undecided, the club’s cautious handling of his return suggests he may be eased back into action rather than starting from the outset.

Nevertheless, his presence in the squad would be a psychological lift for teammates and fans alike, signalling the return of one of Atalanta’s most decisive players.

Zuric is expected to make his final decision after training on Saturday, balancing the need for Lookman’s attacking contribution with the priority of ensuring his long-term fitness.

Should he be included, Sunday’s encounter at home to Lecce could mark the beginning of Lookman’s competitive season with Atalanta, one that supporters hope will once again see him deliver the goals and performances that have made him a key figure in Bergamo.