'Big names' -  Atalanta's Super Eagles forward insists UEFA Super Cup is not about Lookman v Mbappe 

Atalanta are set for another magic night on Wednesday when they do battle with the most successful team in European football, Real Madrid in the UEFA Super Cup.

Ademola Lookman was responsible for the Nerazzurri qualifying to play in the Super Cup with his historic hat-trick against Victor Boniface's Bayer Leverkusen in the final of the Europa League back in May.

Along with Barcelona and AC Milan, Real Madrid are the most successful team in the UEFA Super Cup with five titles each.

Los Blancos have strengthened their squad with the signing of a new Galactico, Kylian Mbappe, who is set to make his official debut for the Champions League winners on Wednesday. 

Lookman has picked up where he left off last season with impressive displays in Atalanta's first two pre-season fixtures, registering a goal and forcing an own goal against Parma and AZ Alkmaar respectively.

Apart from Mbappe, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has taken a star-studded squad to Warsaw to face Atalanta, including Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Luka Modrić and Antonio Rüdiger.

With leading players ready to showcase their talents, Lookman has emphasized that the UEFA Super Cup isn’t just about him and Mbappe.

When asked if the Super Cup is a Lookman versus Mbappe affair, the Nigerian told UEFA's official webpage: "I don't think it's about that. There are a lot of quality players on the pitch, big names. I'm just focused on getting out there, working hard and showing quality."

He added: "They are a top side with top players, a very strong team. But we are looking forward to the battle tomorrow because it's going to have to be a battle."

Lookman stressed that Atalanta are not scared of facing any team and ready for the challenge against Real Madrid. 

"No. We'll approach the game with the same mindset we always have: working hard together, covering each other's backs, fighting for each other, and showing our quality at the right moments. we have that quality so we are looking forward to it."

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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