Ademola Lookman’s influence at Atalanta goes beyond his performances on the pitch, with Ukrainian teenager Oleksandr Dragan hailing the Nigerian forward as a mentor and role model.
Dragan, who recently signed his first professional contract with Atalanta, has been training with the senior team and revealed how Lookman’s guidance has helped him settle in.
Dragan and Ademola Lookman both arrived at Atalanta in the summer of 2022, but their journeys took different paths. While Lookman immediately became a key player under Gian Piero Gasperini, the Ukrainian youngster was integrated into the club’s youth setup.
Now training with the senior squad, Dragan has revealed how the Nigerian international has been a mentor to him and other young players at the club.
In an interview with Dynamo.kiev.ua, Dragan spoke highly of Lookman’s leadership and positive influence.
“There are three people — de Ketelaere, Lookman, and Retegui. That’s top level!” he said.
He further praised the former Everton and Fulham winger for his personality off the pitch.
“Lookman. As a person, he is very pleasant, friendly, cheerful, always with a smile on his face. Ademola radiates kindness.”
Dragan also shared the valuable advice Lookman gave him:
“Lookman told me: ‘Boy, just have fun on the field. Football is fun. You don’t need to stress, always be relaxed and then everything will be fine.’”
Lookman has been a standout performer for Atalanta, winning the club’s Player of the Year award twice.
His defining moment came last season when he scored a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, securing the club’s first-ever European title.
That performance earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination and CAF’s African Player of the Year award.
While Lookman’s on-field brilliance has been widely recognized, his influence in the dressing room is proving just as valuable.
Lookman Set for Summer Exit Amid Growing Interest
Ademola Lookman (Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Despite his contributions, Lookman’s future at Atalanta is uncertain with renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the Nigerian will leave this summer.
Several top clubs are circling, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle all linked to the 27-year-old winger. Juventus have also made him a priority signing ahead of the summer transfer window.
With 17 goals and seven assists across all competitions this season, Lookman has established himself as one of Europe’s most in-demand forwards.
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