No way back for Ademola Lookman? Atalanta return ruled out as coach Ivan Juric wants to see 'a different level of humanity' after star's transfer dramatics

The attacker was again left out of the squad altogether as Atalanta claimed their first Serie A win of the season by beating Lecce 4-1 in Bergamo. The game came two days after Lookman met with club president Antonio Percassi, CEO Luca Percassi and sporting director Tony D'Amico to discuss his situation at the club following his attempts to force a summer transfer, but it remains unclear if he will be welcomed back into the team.

It had been reported that Lookman may make it to the squad for Sunday's match, but Juric refused to relent and explained his decision after the game.

"Lookman won't be called up; it's a bad, unpleasant situation," he told reporters. "We need spirit, fighting spirit, humility, hard work, and a sense of belonging. Our players need to be like this; I want a different level of humanity."

Lookman tried to force his way out of the club as Serie A rivals Inter made an offer. After Atalanta refused, he handed in a transfer request and publicly criticised the club, accusing them of breaking a promise. Atalanta hit back with the claim that the agreement to sell him for a certain price only applied to non-Italian teams and the player remained on strike for some time. The 27-year-old has since been training alone, but has been included in the Champions League squad, suggesting he could still play a role under Juric.

Atalanta are set to face the reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain as they kick off their Champions League campaign on September 18. However, Juric's side are missing their starting star forward, Gianluca Scamacca, who is out with a quadriceps injury and is expected to return in late September.