Nigerian fans on social media have fiercely condemned Atalanta coach Ivan Juric following an alleged physical altercation with Ademola Lookman during a Champions League match against Marseille. The uproar comes just months after SoftFootball reported how Lookman was finding his rhythm again at Atalanta after a turbulent summer that almost saw him leave the club.
Tensions between Lookman and his manager appear to have reignited, sparking renewed discussions about the winger’s future. This incident arrives on the heels of SoftFootball’s earlier report on Inter Milan’s failed pursuit of the Nigerian star after Atalanta refused to lower their valuation.
The outrage began when Nigerian user @oku_yungx posted what he described as an open letter to the club. He condemned the coach’s alleged conduct, writing:
Mr. Coach, it has come to our attention that your recent conduct towards Ademola Lookman was both unprofessional and unacceptable… Every player deserves dignity and respect, regardless of nationality.
Media personality @PoojaMedia echoed the sentiment, insisting:
You can’t put your hands on a player. Atalanta must sack their manager. No matter what Lookman said, you don’t put your hand on a player.
The frustration was shared by @john322226, who highlighted Lookman’s stellar record, his historic Europa League final hat-trick, Player of the Season award, and CAF African Footballer of the Year triumph, demanding the respect he deserves.
Other users, like @Wizarab10 and @Buchi_Laba, called for Lookman to leave the club, labelling Juric’s behaviour irresponsible and aggressive. Meanwhile, @abazwhyllzz reminded fans of Lookman’s legacy, noting:
He single-handedly gave Atalanta their first Europa League trophy. He deserves to be treated better.
As the storm rages online, Atalanta’s silence has only intensified fan pressure, with many insisting that the club must act to protect one of their brightest stars.
