Early Return Boosts Atalanta Ahead of Bilbao Clash

Ademola Lookman could make his first Atalanta appearance of 2026 after returning early from international duty with the Super Eagles. The former African Footballer of the Year trained with teammates on Tuesday and is in contention for the UEFA Champions League clash against Athletic Bilbao.

Lookman impressed at AFCON 2025 in Morocco, registering seven goal involvements, the highest at the tournament. At a pre-match press conference, coach Raffaele Palladino praised the winger’s commitment, saying: “He’s fine… he was supposed to return tomorrow, but he wanted to return a day early… I’m happy because he showed commitment.” Lookman has two goal contributions in five Champions League games this season. Atalanta sit in the top eight and seek victory to avoid playoffs.