Atalanta head coach, Ivan Juric, has made it clear he will not plead with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman to feature for the club, despite the player’s recent return to full training.

Lookman, 27, had been absent earlier in the summer after reportedly submitting a transfer request in an attempt to force a move away from Bergamo. Atalanta, however, rejected several bids, including repeated offers from Inter Milan.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Serie A clash with Lecce, Juric described the situation as “unpleasant” but maintained that no individual is bigger than the club.

“This is a difficult situation. With Lookman, I have a very good relationship, but I don’t have to beg him to play,” Juric told reporters. “We are Atalanta, and we represent the city. What matters here are values—work, humility, and commitment. I don’t have to pray to anyone. Atalanta needs strong human values.”

The Super Eagles star, who scored a stunning hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League final, had been linked with several top European clubs during the transfer window, but no deal materialised.

Although Lookman has now rejoined training, Juric confirmed he will not feature in the Lecce game as the club carefully manages his reintegration and team harmony.

Atalanta, who enjoyed a strong finish to last season, will turn to other attacking options to maintain their momentum in the early weeks of the campaign.

Lookman’s long-term future at the Gewiss Stadium remains uncertain, with his involvement likely hinging on how quickly he embraces Juric’s demand for humility and hard work.