UCL: Atalanta Denies Rift With Lookman

UCL: Atalanta Denies Rift With Lookman

Sampson Adedeji

Atalanta manager Ivan Juric has dismissed reports of a fallout with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman following a heated exchange during their UEFA Champions League clash on Wednesday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Footage from the game showed Juric and Lookman exchanging words after the winger was substituted, prompting speculation of tension between the pair.

Reacting after the match, Juric played down the incident, insisting it was a normal occurrence in football.

 “These things happen every Sunday, like the Conte De Bruyne incident in Naples,” Juric said.

“In the heat of the moment, things can get a bit exaggerated, but it’s resolved in the locker room."

Players aren’t always comfortable with being substituted, and there can be some uncontrolled reactions.What matters most is Atalanta and the team’s well-being.”

Lookman, who has been one of Atalanta’s standout performers this season, is expected to feature in their next Serie A fixture as the club continues its strong run in both domestic and European competitions.