“Let’s talk football” – Atalanta President Luca Percassi reacts to Ademola Lookman’s exit

February 6, 2026

Atalanta President Luca Percassi has reacted to Ademola Lookman‘s decision to join Atletico Madrid, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles attacker was keen on leaving Atalanta during the summer transfer window, with Inter Milan as the club in view.

However, the Atalanta hierarchy were firm in their decision not to let the 28-year-old join another Italian club, especially not a rival like Inter.

Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman gaining interest from Napoli. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!

Prior to Lookman’s exit, Percassi made it clear that he wouldn’t sanction the Nigerian’s sale.

“Does Lookman stay until the end of the season? The arrival of Raspadori was a market opportunity that did not presuppose the disposal of another player,” the 45-year-old said in quotes revealed by FC Inter.

“We are happy that Giacomo [Raspadori] has chosen Atalanta, he is an important player like Ademola, who tonight returns to be the starter. We just want to do well, in short,” Luca Percassi concluded.

Ademola Lookman and Enrique Cerezo, President of Atletico de Madrid pose for a photo. Copyright: ImagoxDennisxAgyemanx

Now, the 45-year-old mentioned Atalanta are happy with their current squad, and just want to ‘focus’ on football away from the noise in the transfer market.

“Football has a short memory, so we must work all the time to ensure the squad is as competitive as possible,” Percassi told Sport Media set.

“I think the transfer window allowed Atalanta to reinforce the team. We signed a player that we were not expecting to get. We’re very happy that Raspadori chose Atalanta.

“Now, fortunately, we can talk only about football and not the transfer market, as many important matches are coming up.

“This is our 16th year since my family returned to Atalanta, so we know the journey we have taken, and that this remains a provincial club that must earn every single point.

“We knew that after nine years, a fantastic era was ending, that it would not be easy to start again, but we put all our energy and financial support into the technical project. We want to keep going with no regrets,” the Atalanta President concluded.