When Oleksandr Dragan first arrived at Atalanta in the summer of 2022, he was just another hopeful teenager stepping into the unknown. Meanwhile, across the club’s ranks, Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman was embarking on a journey that would redefine his career.

Dragan, a talented Ukrainian prospect, began his development in Atalanta’s youth system, gradually working his way up from the U17s to the U18s before recently signing his first professional contract. Lookman, on the other hand, went straight into Gian Piero Gasperini’s senior squad, where he wasted no time making an impact.

Two years on, their paths have crossed in a way that Dragan never anticipated. While Lookman’s dazzling performances on the pitch—culminating in a UEFA Europa League-winning hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen—have earned him global recognition, his influence off the field has been just as profound.

Dragan, now training with Atalanta’s first team, recently opened up about the figures who have left the biggest impression on him. Speaking to Dynamo.kiev.ua, he named Charles De Ketelaere, Mateo Retegui, and Ademola Lookman as the standout senior players in the squad. But when asked who had taken him under their wing, his answer was clear.

“Lookman,” Dragan said. “As a person, he is very pleasant, friendly, cheerful—always with a smile on his face. Ademola radiates kindness.”

The young Ukrainian also shared a piece of advice that Lookman had given him—simple words, but ones that resonated deeply.

“Lookman told me: ‘Boy, just have fun on the field. Football is fun. You don’t need to stress, always be relaxed, and then everything will be fine.’”

As Lookman’s time at Atalanta appears to be nearing its end—amid rumors of a move to the Premier League—his legacy may extend far beyond the goals he scored. For Dragan and other young talents at the club, the Nigerian star has been more than just a teammate; he has been a mentor, a role model, and a reminder that, even at the highest level, football is still a game to be enjoyed.