Atalanta Tensions Exposed: Ivan Juric Speaks Out After Fiery Moment With Lookman

Atalanta head coach Ivan Juric has addressed the heated touchline incident involving Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman during their Champions League clash with Marseille on Wednesday night.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The confrontation unfolded in the 75th minute when Juric substituted Lookman for Yunus Musah with the score still level at 0-0. Lookman appeared frustrated by the decision, exchanging tense words with his manager as he left the field.

In the heat of the moment, Juric reacted sharply and seemingly grabbed Lookman, but Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi and captain Marten de Roon quickly intervened to defuse the situation. Footage captured the pair speaking again after the final whistle, though it remained unclear whether they were reconciling or continuing the argument.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia after the match, Juric downplayed the incident, describing it as part of football’s emotional intensity.

“This is something we see often,” Juric said. “It happened with De Bruyne at Napoli. Some players don’t take substitutions well, and we resolve these matters in the locker room.”

Despite the tension, Atalanta secured a 1-0 victory thanks to a late goal from Lazar Samardzic, earning a crucial Champions League win for the Serie A side.

Lookman, who had reportedly sought a move to Inter Milan over the summer, has struggled for consistency this season. While he was a standout performer last campaign, he has found goals and rhythm harder to come by in recent weeks.

Juric emphasized that emotional reactions like this are normal and will be managed internally. “We move on,” he added.