Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has explained how a series of personal conversations helped revive the form of Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman after a difficult start to the season.

Lookman had struggled under former coach Ivan Juric, scoring just once in 11 matches following a frustrating summer in which a move to Inter Milan failed to materialise.

The period also included a touchline clash with Juric during a Europa League meeting with Marseille.

Atalanta dismissed Juric soon after and appointed Palladino. Although his first match ended in defeat to Napoli, the new manager has since overseen victories against Eintracht Frankfurt and Fiorentina.

Lookman scored in both games, his first goals since last season, and appears to have settled again.

Speaking after the win over Fiorentina, Palladino praised the response from his squad.

“It has been a good week, with a victory in the Champions League and a win here in Serie A, which had been missing for a while,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“We were up against an opponent that is alive and kicking today, who really wanted to get a result, but we showed patience and created many scoring opportunities.

“There was the risk of conceding, but our forwards were clinical. I saw what I expected, and now we must continue like this.

“The credit is down to the lads, I simply brought my ideas and tactical principles.”

Palladino said Ademola Lookman’s improved displays began with a straightforward discussion.

“With Lookman, I did exactly what I did with the rest of the team: I spoke individually,” he said in comments quoted by Tutto Atalanta.

“A few words were enough, because he is a smart guy who immediately understands.

“I was clear, he was very clear with me: we want to go in the same direction because we both want to bring Atalanta as high as possible.

“He’s doing a good job in the offensive phase, but I stress his defensive contribution: he’s in the match.

“I’m happy for his goals; he’s an essential asset.”

Note that Lookman’s return to form will be welcomed by Nigeria as they prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

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