Nigerian footballer Ademola Lookman has issued a statement accusing Atalanta of blocking his move away from the Club.
Lookman said he has given everything over the past three years at Atalanta, not just as a footballer, but as a person.
“I have always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion, and dedication,” he said.
Lookman said he arrived with the hope of growing at the Club, and together, they have created memories that will stay with me forever.
He stated that winning the Europa League and with his teammates that night in Dublin, celebrating with Atalanta fans was one of the proudest moments of his career so far.
“It still gives me goosebumps thinking about it,” he said.
Lookman stated that Atalanta, and especially its supporters, have become a part of him.
He said Atalanta has felt like home from the moment he arrived, and he has always tried to repay that love – even in moments where things have not been easy behind the scenes.
“That’s what makes writing this so hard. I have loved every moment but feel that now, after three wonderful years in Bergamo, it is the right time to move on and experience a new adventure,” Lookman said.
Loyalty and Agreement with Atalanta
Lookman revealed that there have been numerous clubs that have approached Atalanta in the past, and he has always stayed loyal.
However, Lookman said he has agreed with the ownership of the club that it is now the right time for him to move.
He said the club was clear with him that if a fair offer came in, they would allow him to move.
“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment with what I believe had been discussed, sadly, the club is blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand,” he said.
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Lookman Complains of Poor Treatment
Further, the player said he feels like Atalanta has been treating him poorly after many months of broken promises.
He explained that he has no choice but to speak out for what he believes is right and feels that enough is enough.
“I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request,” he added.
Lookman said he has remained private and confidential even throughout the challenging moments he has endured.
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Prioritizing the Club & Fans
In most instances, Lookman said he has always tried to put the club, the fans, and the team first and hoped it would not get to this, but he has been left with no choice.
“To the fans – the heartbeat of this club – I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this. I hope you can understand this incredibly difficult situation. It’s simply about standing up for what I believe is fair and right. The support you have always given me has been incredible, and the bond we have created together is special,” he said.
Lookman said he hopes to work together with the club to find an amicable solution for all parties as soon as possible.
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