Atalanta Boss Palladino Extends Farewell to Lookman Following Atletico Madrid Transfer
Atalanta head coach Raffaele Palladino has delivered a heartfelt message to Nigerian international Ademola Lookman after the Super Eagles forward completed his long-awaited move to Spanish giants Atletico Madrid. The transfer, finalized on February 3, 2026, marks the end of Lookman's three-and-a-half-year tenure with the Bergamo-based club.
Lookman's Storied Legacy at Atalanta
Ademola Lookman joined Atalanta from RB Leipzig during the summer of 2022 and quickly established himself as a club legend through his exceptional performances. According to Transfermarkt statistics, the Nigerian attacker registered an impressive 55 goals and 27 assists across 137 appearances in all competitions during his time in Italy.
His most memorable contribution came during the 2024 UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, where his remarkable hat-trick secured Atalanta's first major trophy in 61 years. This historic achievement cemented his status as one of the club's most influential players in recent memory.
A Transfer Saga Spanning Multiple Windows
Lookman's departure concludes a protracted transfer saga that extended across nearly 18 months and two separate transfer windows. The relationship between player and club became strained following Atalanta's refusal to entertain offers from prestigious European clubs.
- Paris Saint-Germain saw their approach rejected during the initial stages of the saga
- Inter Milan's subsequent interest was blocked by Atalanta's management, with CEO Luca Percassi citing reluctance to strengthen a domestic rival
- Tensions escalated further following a disagreement with former coach Gian Piero Gasperini over a penalty miss against Club Brugge in the Champions League
Despite these challenges, Lookman maintained his professional standards, earning recognition as the 2024 African Footballer of the Year and securing 14th position in the prestigious Ballon d'Or rankings.
Palladino's Respectful Farewell Message
Raffaele Palladino, who managed Lookman since taking over from Ivan Juric in November 2025, addressed the transfer during an interview with Tutto Atalanta. The coach expressed gratitude for the Nigerian's contributions while acknowledging the realities of modern football.
"It's a dynamic that's part of today's football. Lookman received this important request, he expressed his desire to take it up, and he chose Atlético Madrid," Palladino stated. "We must respect his decision and thank him for what he's given. We look forward with the strong players we have at our disposal and with the desire to continue to amaze."
Lookman's New Chapter in Madrid
The Nigerian international finally secured his desired move during the 2026 winter transfer window, joining Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid in the Spanish capital. Lookman reportedly turned down a lucrative offer from Turkish side Fenerbahce, prioritizing Champions League football in a top European league over financial incentives.
Following the transfer confirmation, Lookman took to Instagram to address his new supporters: "Proud and excited to start this new chapter. I'm happy to join Atlético de Madrid, a massive club with a rich history and passion. New city, new challenges, new energy. I'm ready to give everything on the pitch and fight for these colours every time I step out there."
The Super Eagles star also extended appreciation to Atalanta supporters for their unwavering support throughout his tenure, particularly during periods of tension with the club's hierarchy. As Lookman embarks on this new challenge with Atletico Madrid, Nigerian football enthusiasts will closely monitor his adaptation to Spanish football and his continued contributions to the national team.
