Atalanta BC received a significant boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League playoff second leg against Club Brugge, as forward Ademola Lookman has returned to training following a knee injury.
The Nigerian international participated in today’s session with the team, signaling a potential return to the squad for the crucial match.
Lookman sustained the injury last month, causing him to miss Atalanta’s last six matches across all competitions. His absence was felt during the first leg against Club Brugge, where Atalanta suffered a 2-1 defeat.
Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini had previously expressed hope for Lookman’s return, stating, “Between tomorrow and Monday, we aim to have him join the group for the Club Brugge match.”
Despite Lookman’s return to training, Atalanta continues to grapple with injuries to other key players, including forward Gianluca Scamacca and midfielder Daniel Maldini.
Gasperini acknowledged the impact of these absences following a recent goalless draw against Cagliari, attributing the result to a shortage of fit strikers.
Club Brugge, on the other hand, enters the match with confidence, holding a 2-1 lead from the first leg. Head coach Nicky Hayen shared his unique pre-match ritual of speaking to his late mother, a practice he believes brings good fortune.
Reflecting on the upcoming fixture, Hayen stated, “Atalanta will definitely play more attacking… We have to play our own game and especially show the tactical discipline of last week.”
The decisive second leg is scheduled for tomorrow at Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo. Atalanta will aim to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the Champions League Round of 16, while Club Brugge seeks to maintain their advantage and advance further in the competition.
