Ademola Lookman admits Atalanta are ‘excited’ to play Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup and want to prove they ‘deserve to be here’ after winning the Europa League.
The clash kicks off at the National Stadium in Warsaw on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (19.00 GMT).
La Dea earned their place in this showdown thanks to the 3-0 Europa League Final victory over much-fancied Bayer Leverkusen, where Lookman was the hat-trick hero.
With Gianluca Scamacca, Giorgio Scalvini and Nicolò Zaniolo injured, plus Teun Koopmeiners left out over his transfer request to Juventus, the Nigeria international could take centre-stage again.
“I think tomorrow night is a different occasion. Playing in the Super Cup tomorrow is a different night. So, I’m excited, happy to be involved, and looking forward to it,” he said in his press conference.
“It’s not just me, but I think the whole squad is excited about the occasion. We deserve to be here through our hard work and perseverance. Tomorrow night is another chance to show that.”
Will Ademola Lookman be able to unpick the Real Madrid defence as he did Bayer Leverkusen in last season’s #UEL final? 🔐
📺 Watch the #Supercup live on @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK tomorrow from 7pmpic.twitter.com/3v6jWwPsjT
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 13, 2024
Lookman seeking another big European scalp
If Atalanta were the underdogs against Bayer Leverkusen, then they can multiply that status when facing Champions League serial winners Real Madrid.
“It’s a top team of top players, who are ready at any moment. I don’t think there’s any good time to face Real Madrid. Obviously, they have their powers, but we also have quality.”
The Merengues are expected to give new signings Kylian Mbappé and Endrick their debuts, further strengthening the squad that lifted the Champions League a couple of months ago.
During this evening’s training session, coach Gian Piero Gasperini tested out a front three of Charles De Ketelaere, Mateo Retegui and Lookman, suggesting he once again believes attack is the best form of defence.