By Rosemary Ugiomoh
Atalanta has parted ways with manager Ivan Juric following a dismal run of form, culminating in a 3-0 home defeat to Sassuolo. The Croatian coach’s tenure was marked by a seven-match winless streak in Serie A, leaving the Bergamo club in 13th place, 11 points behind leaders Inter Milan and Roma.
Juric’s struggles on the pitch were likely exacerbated by internal issues, particularly his reported altercation with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman.
The winger’s poor form, with no goals or assists in six appearances, was cited by Juric as a contributing factor to the team’s struggles. Lookman’s difficulties were further compounded by his attempt to force a move to Inter Milan, which reportedly soured his relationship with Juric.
Other factors behind Juric’s sacking are, Juric’s inability to adapt to the team’s needs and make effective tactical changes.
: The team’s disjointed performance, with Lookman’s absence from the starting lineup against Udinese highlighting internal conflicts.
Juric’s heavy rotation of players, which may have disrupted team chemistry.
Raffaele Palladino, a former Fiorentina and Monza coach, is the favorite to replace Juric, with Thiago Motta also in the running. The challenge for Atalanta’s new manager will be to restore the team’s form and cohesion, capitalizing on their early-season momentum.
