Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has set his sights on winning the Europa League and the Italian Cup with Atalanta.
The 26-year-old made this known after his side's 2-0 win over Empoli at the Gewiss Stadium on Sunday.
Lookman scored Atalanta's second goal of the game in the 51st minute, adding to Mario Pasalic's earlier strike.
Atalanta currently hold the sixth spot in Serie A, having accumulated 57 points from 33 matches. They trail Roma by two points, with Roma having played one more game.
With the new UEFA Champions League format scheduled to kick off next season, Serie A will secure five qualification spots. Consequently, if the standings remain unchanged, Roma would secure one of these spots.
Lookman's triple aim: UEFA Champions League chase, cup quests, and crucial victories
Reflecting on La Dea's recent triumph, Ademola Lookman emphasised the importance of the victory. “This victory is very important because we have to reach the Champions League. We also have commitments in the Italian Cup and the Europa League, winning today was important.,”Lookman said told DAZN as reported by Tuttoatalanta.
In response to questions about the fierce competition with Roma, Lookman affirmed the team's mindset, stating, “Yes, Roma are a strong team but so are we. We know that every match is difficult but we are ready to try to win them all.”
Ahead of the Europa League semi-final clash with Olympique Marseille, Lookman said,”It will be a difficult match but we are confident that we can achieve a positive result and then we will see.”
Ademola Lookman scores ninth Serie A goal
His recent strike against Empoli marked his ninth Serie A goal of the 2023/2024 season, further underlining his impact on the pitch.
Ademola Lookman has also contributed six assists in 27 league appearances, demonstrating his versatility and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Beyond Serie A, Lookman has proven his worth across all competitions, tallying a total of 11 goals so far.
Lookman has in the past few weeks been linked with a move away from Italy. The reports indicate that the Nigerian forward has struggled to adapt to life in Italy, citing significant cultural disparities compared to his previous experiences in Germany and England. Nonetheless, this challenge has not hinder his impressive performance on the field.
Can Lookman help Atalanta win the Europa Cup, Coppa Italia and secure a Champions League spot?
Atalanta finds themselves on the brink of European success as they gear up to face Marseille in the UEFA Europa League semi-finals.
A victory in this crucial tie would propel them to the finals, where they are poised to meet either AS Roma or Bayer 04 Leverkusen.
Simultaneously, Atalanta's pursuit of silverware extends to the domestic stage, with the Coppa Italia finals beckoning against perennial powerhouse Juventus on May 15th.
This eagerly anticipated clash promises to test Atalanta's mettle and determination against one of Italy's most formidable opponents.
With these significant challenges looming on the horizon, all eyes are on Lookman and his teammates to lead Atalanta to glory.
Their performances in both competitions not only offer the chance to lift prestigious trophies but also the opportunity to secure a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League.
Has Atalanta won an European trophy before?
Atalanta's storied history boasts a remarkable triumph in the Coppa Italia, a feat achieved once during the 1962/63 season.
Despite their domestic success, Atalanta's European journey has been characterized by untapped potential.
With a notable absence of any European trophies to their name, the club continues to strive for continental glory.
Their last foray into the UEFA Champions League occurred two seasons ago, signaling Atalanta's ambition to compete amongst Europe's elite.
Though their recent European campaigns may have ended without lifting the coveted trophy, the experience garnered serves as valuable groundwork for future endeavours.
