Palladino: ‘Lookman asked to leave, Atalanta ready for strong Juventus’

Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino insists they ‘care about’ the Coppa Italia quarter-final against Juventus, but confirm Ademola Lookman ‘asked to leave’ for Atletico Madrid.

The match kicks off at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo on Thursday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

It will be decided after 90 minutes, or go directly to a penalty shoot-out if they are still on level terms, without extra time.

The winners will then go on to face either Bologna or Lazio in the semi-final.

“This is a fascinating game against a strong team in good shape, who play fine football and have an excellent coach,” Palladino told Sport Mediaset.

“It’s an important match for us, because we care about this competition and want to keep going forward, being competitive to the end.

“Juventus have many great players, who since Luciano Spalletti’s arrival have gained belief in themselves. I see a strong identity now in this team, so Spalletti deserves credit for that. I always prefer to face the strongest opponents.”

There have been some changes to the Atalanta squad in the January transfer window, including the arrival of Giacomo Raspadori and departure of Lookman.

“Lookman had this offer towards the end of the transfer session, he asked to leave and wanted a change of scenery, so the club made him happy. I am very pleased with the team at my disposal, it is what we needed to face three tournaments. We were going to an away match when he left, so there wasn’t much time to say goodbye, but we wish him all the best for the future,” continued Palladino.

“I am fortunate to have a strong and competitive squad, with many players of quality and technique, so I am spoilt for choice on who to start tomorrow.

“Jack did not play the most recent match, but that was unusual anyway as we were down to 10 men. We’ll see who I choose after the final training session.”

Atalanta were down to 10 men for almost all of their draw with Como, as Honest Ahanor saw red early on for a reaction foul, but Marco Carnesecchi saved the last-gasp Nico Paz penalty.

“We will not fine Ahanor, he is young and is well aware of his mistake. I liked the reaction of the team, which fought hard to bring home a positive result.”