Atalanta’s head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, has moved to defuse tensions with star player Ademola Lookman, insisting he did not mean to offend the Nigerian international with remarks made after their UEFA Champions League defeat to Club Brugge on Tuesday. The 5-2 aggregate loss saw Lookman, recently crowned Africa’s best footballer, return from injury to make an immediate impact with a goal—only to miss a crucial penalty that drew sharp criticism from his manager.
In the heat of post-match frustration, Gasperini had labeled Lookman “the worst penalty taker” he’d ever seen, a comment that stung the forward, who felt disrespected. Lookman’s standout season, including his heroics in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last year, had raised expectations, making the critique particularly pointed. However, Gasperini has since softened his stance, emphasizing that his outburst was not a personal attack but a reaction to the moment.
Speaking to the press, Gasperini said, “Lookman felt offended, but I didn’t want to offend anyone. He entered with a fantastic approach against Club Brugge.” He praised Lookman’s contribution, noting his immediate goal-scoring impact after coming off the bench. The coach also expressed confidence in the 27-year-old’s potential, adding, “If he starts training to improve on penalties… with his exceptional skills, Ademola can become our first penalty taker.”
Lookman’s return had been a bright spot in an otherwise dismal night for Atalanta, who struggled to contain Club Brugge’s onslaught. His goal showcased the flair that earned him the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, but the missed penalty—coming late in the game—shifted the narrative. Gasperini’s initial rebuke seemed to overshadow Lookman’s broader influence, prompting the forward’s public dismay.
The coach’s clarification reflects an effort to mend fences with a key player at a critical juncture. Atalanta, currently navigating a packed schedule across Serie A and European competitions, rely heavily on Lookman’s versatility and scoring prowess. His injury layoff had already tested the squad’s depth, and his reintegration is vital as they aim to rebound from the Champions League setback.
Gasperini’s backtrack also hints at a broader lesson. By acknowledging Lookman’s “exceptional skills” and suggesting penalty practice, he shifts from criticism to constructive encouragement—a nod to the player’s capacity to grow. For Lookman, the episode underscores his rising stature; his reaction to feeling disrespected signals a confidence befitting Africa’s top footballer.
As Atalanta regroup, Gasperini’s words aim to restore harmony, ensuring Lookman remains a cornerstone of their ambitions rather than a point of contention.
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