You Didn’t Treat Him Right — Fans react to Atalanta’s Lookman post

Italian Serie A side Atalanta have congratulated their former forward, Ademola Lookman, following his transfer to Spanish La Liga giants Atlético Madrid during the January transfer window.

The Bergamo-based club took to X (formerly Twitter) to post a brief message, “Congratulations Mola,” acknowledging the Nigerian international’s switch to Spain. However, the gesture did not sit well with many Nigerian football fans, who flooded social media with criticism of Atalanta over how they handled Lookman’s exit.

Lookman’s move to Atlético Madrid brings an end to a turbulent but ultimately successful spell in Italy. Despite reported tensions behind the scenes and resistance from Atalanta during negotiations, the 27-year-old maintained professionalism throughout the process and remained focused on his performances on the pitch.

Fans were quick to recall Lookman’s immense contribution to the club, particularly his historic role in ending Atalanta’s long wait for silverware, as well as his resilience during a difficult period marked by uncertainty and pressure.

One fan, @passymore, wrote:

“Ademola Lookman approached his transfer with utmost professionalism unlike others, yet Atalanta tried to ruin him and refused all efforts to let him go. Dude stood tall, battled with low confidence and still showed the world what he’s got at AFCON. Welcome to Atlético Madrid, bro.”

Another supporter, @I_am_Commando, highlighted Lookman’s legacy at the club:

“From setbacks to silver linings. Ademola Lookman stayed professional, focused, and kept believing against all odds. Atalanta was a chapter of growth and resilience, and you single-handedly won them that trophy after three decades of drought. Now a new stage, a bigger spotlight.”

Others were less forgiving in their assessment of Atalanta’s conduct. @Haylal accused the club of lacking integrity, while @Pererrateam described their actions as “disrespectful and disgraceful,” calling for a full explanation of what transpired behind the scenes.

Some fans even looked ahead with a sense of poetic justice. @ultimatebayoor wrote:

“I pray Atlético face Atalanta in the Champions League. He must score a hat-trick against them.”

Now at Atlético Madrid, Lookman begins a new chapter in his career under a brighter spotlight, with fans eager to see him thrive in La Liga after proving his quality in Italy and on the international stage.