Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman grabbed headlines on Wednesday night after a tense touchline exchange with Atalanta manager Ivan Jurić, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian star, who started against Olympique Marseille, showed visible frustration when he was substituted in the second half for Yunus Musah, leading to a brief heated moment with Jurić.
Footage of the incident quickly circulated on social media, sparking debate among Nigerian fans over the coach’s treatment of the 2024 CAF Player of the Year amid his recent transfer saga.
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Nigerian fans have voiced concern over Lookman’s treatment at Atalanta.
What happened between Lookman and Jurić
In the 72nd minute, with Atalanta still pushing for a breakthrough, Jurić opted to substitute Ademola Lookman for Yunus Musah.
The decision seemed to frustrate the Super Eagles forward, who had been one of Atalanta’s most energetic and threatening players on the pitch.
As Lookman made his way off the pitch, Jurić appeared to approach and lightly push him on the sideline. The Nigerian’s reaction and body language clearly reflected his frustration.
Watch the tense exchange between Lookman and Jurić:
Marseille vs Atalanta: Match Highlights
Atalanta snatched a late 1-0 win at the Stade Vélodrome thanks to a stunning stoppage-time strike from Lazar Samardzic.
Earlier, Charles De Ketelaere missed a first-half penalty after Gerónimo Rulli fouled Nikola Krstović, while Lookman’s 68th-minute effort was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
Marseille dominated possession and had a strong handball appeal denied before being caught on the counter. The result puts Atalanta on seven points from four games, while Marseille stay on three and face a tough road to qualification.
Is it time for Lookman to leave Atalanta?
Lookman has been vital for Atalanta, tallying 53 goals and 25 assists since joining. However, tensions reportedly grew during the 2025 summer window after the club blocked several transfer moves, leaving the Nigerian forward frustrated despite strong interest from top European sides.
The Nigerian forward later voiced his disappointment on social media, highlighting his ongoing struggles with the club—issues that trace back to former coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who once publicly criticised him for a missed penalty.
Now, Jurić seems to have continued that pattern following the recent touchline incident with Lookman.
Many fans believe that, for his mental well-being and career development, the Super Eagles star should consider leaving Bergamo when the January transfer window opens.
