Europa League: Lookman iterates confidence in Atalanta’s trophy credentials despite Liverpool, Brighton threat

Atalanta is one of the dark horses in the Europa League, but Lookman believes they can defeat all comers

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman is confident that Atalanta can win the Europa League this season, Soccernet reports.

La Dea missed out on Champions League qualification last season after they finished fifth in Serie A, six points behind AC Milan.

However, they have since risen from that disappointment and have adjusted to playing in the second tier of continental football – the Europa League.

Atalanta take to the pitch on Thursday for their third group stage game against Austrian side Sturm Graz at the Merkur Arena.

They currently sit at the summit of their group with a maximum of six points after two games, and two more wins would guarantee their place in the next round.

Lookman just joined Atalanta last year, and he has proven to be a vital asset, registering 18 goals and eight assists in 44 appearances.

The Super Eagles forward is just 26, but he is quite experienced, as he has played in all three tiers of continental football in Europe.

Lookman believes Atalanta have a better shot at winning the Europa League, and he would take that rather than merely featuring in the Champions League.

“It is better to play the Europa League final than qualify for the Champions League,” Lookman said per Tuttomercatoweb.

“A trophy is priceless. Gian Pero Gasperini always says everything depends on us. We have respect for the opponent but with the idea that we can win against everyone.”

Last weekend, Lookman helped Atalanta rescue a win against Genoa. He will look to continue with his goalscoring form at Sturm Graz.

For Atalanta to win the Europa League, they would have to be at their best because of other top teams like Brighton, West Ham, and Liverpool, who are also in the competition.