Atalanta boss Palladino ready to call on Lookman in Champions League
Raffaele Palladino explains his Atalanta changes against Athletic Club in the Champions League, confirming Ademola Lookman could be ‘thrown into the mix.’
It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).
La Dea had the worst possible opener to their Champions League campaign, losing 4-0 to reigning trophy holders Paris Saint-Germain, but since then won four of the next five, including victories over Chelsea and Olympique Marseille.
Now they have a huge opportunity to bypass the play-offs and go directly into the Round of 16, as they are currently one of the top eight sides.
Atalanta ambitious in the Champions League
Palladino has made big changes from the 1-1 Serie A draw with Pisa on Friday, including a complete transformation of the entire back three.
“I have so many great players, they are all in good shape, there is real enthusiasm, so I feel like whoever I pick knows what to do and works for the team. I have the utmost faith in all my players,” the coach told Sky Sport Italia.
Gianluca Scamacca returns to the starting XI after injury, with Lookman on the bench after returning early from Africa Cup of Nations duty.
“I watched all Ade’s games in the Africa Cup of Nations, and we were cheering him on. He only had one training session, we’re glad he is here, and if needed then we’ll throw him into the mix.”
Lookman scored three goals with four assists in that tournament, helping Nigeria to secure third place.
Giacomo Raspadori was signed from Atletico Madrid, but is not eligible for the Champions League until the next phase.