AFCON 2025: Atalanta Manager Raffaele Palladino Expresses Concern Over Ademola Lookman’s Absence
Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has voiced his disappointment over the upcoming absence of Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following his team’s 3–1 Serie A defeat to Verona.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Palladino highlighted the difficulty of losing two key players for an extended period. Alongside Lookman, Atalanta will also be without Ivorian defender Odilon Kossounou, both of whom he described as “strong and decisive” for the team.
“We are losing two important players for us—Lookman and Kossounou—strong and decisive, but we are regaining Kolasinac and Scalvini, who are equally important,” Palladino said.
Lookman is expected to be included in Nigeria’s Super Eagles squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations later this week, leaving Atalanta to adjust their strategy without the talented winger.
