Atalanta has received a timely boost ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League second-leg playoff against Club Brugge, as Ademola Lookman and Sead Kolasinac have returned to training.
Lookman and Kolasinac’s availability comes as a relief for La Dea, who need to overturn a first-leg deficit to stay in the competition.
According to Eco di Bergamo correspondent Giulia Mazzoleni, “both players were spotted participating in training at Atalanta’s facility on Monday afternoon.”
Atalanta’s recent form has been inconsistent. While they were in contention for the Serie A title before the winter break, their performance has declined. The team has been eliminated from the Coppa Italia, struggled in the league, and now faces a tough European challenge.
Despite a commanding 5-0 victory over Hellas Verona ten days ago, Atalanta followed up their 3-2 first-leg defeat in Belgium with a frustrating goalless draw at home against Cagliari. Meanwhile, Club Brugge has been in impressive form on the European stage, securing vital results against Aston Villa, Sporting CP, and Juventus.
In the first leg, Brugge took the lead in the 15th minute through Ferran Jutgla before Mario Pasalic leveled the score for Atalanta before halftime. However, a late penalty from Gustaf Nilsson sealed a 3-2 victory for the Belgian side.
Atalanta continues to grapple with defensive injuries, with Kolasinac and Italy international Giorgio Scalvini among those still struggling for full fitness. Lookman, who has been dealing with a knee injury, will be a welcome addition if fit enough to feature.
On the other hand, Club Brugge arrives in Bergamo with a fully fit squad and no suspension concerns, giving them the advantage of fielding an unchanged lineup.
Atalanta has won only three of their last 13 matches across all competitions, putting their season at risk. However, with home advantage, they still have an opportunity to push the tie to extra time or mount a comeback.
