With Sunday’s pivotal showdown between Atalanta and Bologna fast approaching, all eyes in Bergamo will be on Ademola Lookman, a player searching for answers as the season reaches its climax.
The Nigeria international, so influential for La Dea last term, has hit a barren spell at the worst possible time. He’s now gone five matches without finding the net, and his record against Bologna offers little encouragement. In four Serie A outings against the Rossoblu, Lookman is yet to taste victory, with three defeats, one draw, and only a solitary goal to show for his efforts.
Against a side that has become something of a bogey team, Sunday offers the reigning CAF Men's Footballer of the Year both a challenge and a chance for redemption.
The match is pivotal in the race for Champions League spots, with Atalanta and Bologna separated by just one point heading into the fixture.
Correct score prediction: Atalanta vs Bologna
Given Atalanta’s poor recent form, three straight losses without a goal, and Bologna’s impressive run, a low-scoring draw looks likely.
Atalanta have failed to score in their last four home matches and haven’t beaten Bologna in their last four meetings. Expect another cagey contest.
Prediction: Atalanta 1-1 Bologna
Ademola Lookman’s dip in form amidst transfer speculation
Since returning from international duty with Nigeria, Lookman’s performances have taken a sharp downturn.
Before the break, he scored three goals in as many matches but has failed to register a single goal or assist since. In his last three league games, he’s been substituted in all: 83 minutes against Inter Milan, 55 against Fiorentina, and 74 against Lazio, none of which ended favorably for Atalanta.
Lookman’s body language has also drawn attention, particularly in last weekend’s loss to Lazio, where his frustration was visible.
Despite his recent downturn, the 27-year-old has still produced 18 goals and 7 assists across all competitions this season. However, the timing of his dip has coincided with Atalanta’s overall decline in form, raising questions about the Nigeria forward’s mindset.
Atalanta are nothing without the juice but if I had to make an exception it would be for either Lookman or Samardzic https://t.co/E1BUdJTw3h
— IL DRAGO (@DragoInter) April 7, 2025
Reports suggest Ademola Lookman has informed Atalanta of his intention to move on this summer, a decision that places even greater scrutiny on his current form, especially with the club’s Champions League hopes hanging in the balance.
Sunday’s clash with Bologna offers more than just three points; it’s a chance for Lookman to reset against a side that’s long had the better of him, and remind both Atalanta and potential suitors of his ability to influence the biggest games.
