Ademola Lookman Submits Transfer Request, Accuses Atalanta of Broken Promises

Ademola Lookman has formally requested to leave Atalanta, citing “broken promises” and unfair treatment by the club.

In an emotional statement, the Nigerian forward reflected on his three-year journey in Bergamo but declared it was time to “move on” after the club allegedly blocked a transfer despite prior agreements.

Ademola Lookman has officially requested to leave Atalanta BC, releasing a heartfelt yet pointed statement in which he accuses the club of blocking a transfer and treating him unfairly despite what he describes as “many months of broken promises.”

The Nigeria international made his position clear following a recent Serie A clash at the Stadio Carlo Castellani on February 23, 2025, between Empoli and Atalanta, where he was visibly emotional after the match.

“Over the past three years at Atalanta, I’ve given absolutely everything. Not just as a footballer, but as a person. I’ve always worn the shirt with pride and tried to represent this club and the city of Bergamo with heart, passion and dedication,” Lookman said.

“I came here with the hope of helping this special club grow and together, we’ve created memories that will stay with me forever. Winning the Europa League and standing shoulder to shoulder with my teammates that night in Dublin celebrating with our fans was one of the proudest moments of my career so far. It still gives me goosebumps thinking about it.”

“Atalanta, and especially its supporters, have become a part of me. This place has felt like home from the moment I arrived and I’ve always tried to repay that love – even in moments where things haven’t been easy behind the scenes.”

“That’s what makes writing this so hard. I have loved every moment but feel that now, after three wonderful years in Bergamo, it is the right time to move on and experience a new adventure.”

DON’T MISS: Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan Is Dead, Cause of Death Revealed

The 26-year-old forward revealed that although Atalanta had previously agreed to let him leave if a suitable offer came in, they are now refusing to honor that understanding.

“There have been numerous clubs approach Atalanta in the past and I have previously always stayed loyal. However, myself and the ownership of the club have been in agreement that now is the right time and the club were clear with me that if a fair offer came in they would allow me to move.”

“Despite now receiving an offer in alignment to what I believe had been discussed, sadly the club are blocking the opportunity for reasons I do not understand.”

“As a result and after many months of broken promises and what I feel has been poor treatment towards me as both a human being and as a professional footballer, sadly I feel I have no choice but to speak out for what I believe is right and I feel that enough is enough.”

“I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request.”

Tensions between Lookman and the club had been building since last year when he attempted to secure a move to Paris Saint-Germain, only for Atalanta to reject the deal. The situation worsened after the Champions League play-off defeat to Club Brugge in February, when Lookman controversially insisted on taking a decisive penalty — which was saved by Simon Mignolet.

Coach Gian Piero Gasperini was blunt in his post-match comments, stating that Lookman had overstepped his role:

“He was one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen,” Gasperini said, explaining that both Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere were ahead of him in the designated order.

Despite Gasperini’s departure, the friction between Lookman and the club’s hierarchy has not eased. The winger is now trying to force through a transfer to Inter Milan, following a path similar to that of Teun Koopmeiners, who eventually secured a move to Juventus last summer.

In his closing words, Lookman addressed the fans directly:

“To the fans – the heartbeat of this club – I want to say this: I’m truly sorry it’s come to this. I hope you can understand this incredibly difficult situation. It’s simply about standing up for what I believe is fair and right.”

“The support you have always given me has been incredible and the bond we have created together is special.”

“I hope to work together with the club to find an amicable solution for all parties as soon as possible. With love and gratitude, Ademola.”