Ademola Lookman and Sead Kolasinac have returned to Atalanta training ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League second-leg playoff against Club Brugge.
Their return is a timely boost for La Dea as they look to overturn a first-leg deficit. According to Eco di Bergamo correspondent Giulia Mazzoleni, both players were spotted training at Atalanta’s facility on Monday afternoon.
Atalanta’s form has been shaky. Once in the Serie A title race before the winter break, they have since been eliminated from the Coppa Italia, struggled domestically, and now face a tough European challenge.
Despite a dominant 5-0 win over Hellas Verona 10 days ago, Atalanta followed their 3-2 first-leg defeat in Belgium with a frustrating goalless draw against Cagliari. Meanwhile, Club Brugge have been strong in Europe, securing key 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 equalized for Atalanta before halftime. However, a last-minute penalty from Gustaf Nilsson secured a 3-2 victory for the Belgian side.
Atalanta are still dealing with defensive injury concerns, with Kolasinac and Italy international Giorgio Scalvini among those struggling for full fitness. Lookman has also been recovering from a knee injury, making his return to training an encouraging sign.
Club Brugge, on the other hand, arrive in Bergamo with a fully fit squad and no suspension worries, allowing them to field an unchanged starting eleven.
Atalanta’s inconsistency has put their season at risk, with just three wins in their last 13 matches across all competitions. However, with home advantage, they still have a chance to force extra time or stage a comeback.
