Ademola Lookman assailant Ivan Juric gets Atalanta boot

Atalanta have parted ways with head coach Ivan Jurić, following a tense incident involving Ademola Lookman during last week’s Champions League encounter against Marseille.

The Serie A side, known for its attacking verve and competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions, have struggled for consistency this season, and the confrontation proved to be the tipping point for the club’s hierarchy.

The incident unfolded midway through the second half at the Stade Orange Vélodrome. Lookman, frustrated after being substituted, muttered under his breath as he made his way past Jurić. The coach reacted sharply, grabbing the winger by the arm before Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi and midfielder Marten de Roon stepped in to prevent the situation from escalating further. While this altercation was the most visible flashpoint, it came amid growing concerns over the team’s form and internal dynamics.

Jurić, who arrived from Torino with ambitions of building on Atalanta’s recent successes, could not stabilise the squad. A series of inconsistent performances, capped by Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Sassuolo, had already left the Italian tactician on thin ice, with both fans and board members increasingly vocal about the need for change.

Palladino in line to restabilize Lookman and Atalanta

In the wake of Jurić’s departure, attention has turned to Raffaele Palladino, a former Atalanta player and current youth coach, as the preferred candidate to steady the ship. 

At 41, Palladino has earned respect within the club’s academy, cultivating young talent while embodying Atalanta’s attacking philosophy. Discussions are ongoing over a contract that could run until June 2027, signalling the board’s desire for a long-term solution that blends continuity with immediate impact.

Other names, including former Italy coach Roberto Mancini, were mentioned in passing, but Palladino’s deep familiarity with the club’s structure and culture appears to have given him the edge. The Percassi family are keen to rebuild morale and restore confidence among new signings such as Nikola Krstovic, who has struggled to settle in Serie A.

Lookman has had a turbulent start to the season. A hoped-for summer move never materialised, leaving the Nigerian forward frustrated and inconsistent on the pitch. With just one goal so far, his clash with Jurić during the Marseille game has intensified the tension, and the changes at the club will be crucial for both him and the squad as they seek to regain form.