Newly crowned African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, is set to make his return for Atalanta as they host Empoli in a crucial Serie A clash on Sunday. The Nigerian international missed Atalanta’s 6-1 Coppa Italia triumph over Cesena midweek due to his trip to Morocco to receive the prestigious award.
Lookman’s recognition as Africa’s best player adds him to an elite list of seven Nigerians who have achieved this honor. The 27-year-old forward has been a standout performer this season, delivering 11 goals and five assists in 19 appearances across all competitions. His contributions have propelled Atalanta to the top of the Serie A table and earned him a market valuation of €55 million, with interest from European heavyweights like Liverpool reportedly brewing.
The forward is expected to start alongside Charles De Ketelaere and Serie A top scorer Mateo Retegui in Atalanta’s attack as Gian Piero Gasperini’s side seeks to extend their remarkable 10-match winning streak in the league. A win today would ensure Atalanta enters the Christmas break as Serie A leaders for the first time in their 116-year history.
Despite speculation surrounding Lookman’s future, Atalanta President Antonio Percassi recently affirmed that the club has no plans to make changes during the January transfer window.
Atalanta remains a strong title contender, boasting 12 wins in 16 league matches and continuing to build on their success from last season’s historic Europa League triumph in Dublin, where Lookman scored a memorable hat-trick in the final.
While Atalanta enjoys an impressive record against Empoli, winning their last four meetings with an aggregate score of 9-1, they will face challenges in Sunday’s fixture. Captain Marten de Roon is suspended, and key players Giorgio Scalvini and Gianluca Scamacca are sidelined with injuries.
Lookman’s return adds a vital spark to Atalanta’s lineup as they aim to secure another three points and solidify their dominance in Serie A.
