Atalanta Boss Says Lookman and Forwards ‘Should Have Done Better’ in Napoli Defeat
Atalanta manager Raffaele Palladino has expressed disappointment after his team missed several chances in their 3–1 loss to Napoli on Saturday night. He said that Ademola Lookman and the other forwards needed to be more clinical in front of goal.
Lookman, who has had a difficult start to the season, played most of the match before being replaced in the 82nd minute by Daniel Maldini as Atalanta pushed for a late comeback. The Nigerian forward has scored only once in eleven games in all competitions this season, and his struggles continued in Naples.
Napoli’s tight and organised defence made it hard for Lookman to make an impact, frustrating the travelling Atalanta supporters. He managed two shots—one on target—but could not change the game.
Speaking to Sky Sport after the match, Palladino praised the substitutes, especially Gianluca Scamacca, who scored Atalanta’s only goal.
“Gianluca came on with the right spirit. I also liked the other substitutes; they all brought courage and quality,” he said.
However, he also made it clear that the forwards must improve.
“I have a strong forward lineup. Scamacca scored today, and we also had chances with De Ketelaere, Lookman and Samardzic. I expect a lot from them. They’ve done good work, but there is much more to build on.”
With Atalanta’s inconsistent form continuing, Lookman will be desperate to find his best level again as Palladino tries to revive the team’s season.
