Lookman Hits Back at ‘deeply disrespectful’ Gasperini Criticism

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has responded to criticism from his manager Gian Piero Gasperini regarding his missed penalty in Tuesday’s Champions League defeat to Club Brugge. Gasperini labeled Lookman as “one of the worst penalty takers” he has seen, prompting a strong rebuttal from the Nigerian international.

Lookman took to social media to express his disappointment and hurt at Gasperini’s comments, which he described as “deeply disrespectful.”

“Being singled out in the manner I have been not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful, not least because of the immense hard work and commitment I have always put in each and every day to help bring success to this club and to the incredible fans of Bergamo,” Lookman wrote.

He also highlighted his commitment to the team and his willingness to put the club’s needs ahead of his own.

“In truth, I have dealt with many difficult moments during my time here – the majority of which I have never spoken about because in my opinion the team must always be protected and must come first,” Lookman added.

Gasperini had criticized Lookman’s decision to take the penalty, claiming that other players were designated to take spot-kicks and that Lookman’s record from the spot was poor, even in training.

“Lookman was not supposed to take that penalty, he is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen,” Gasperini said. “He has a frankly terrible record even in training, he converts very few of them.”

Lookman disputed Gasperini’s claims, stating that he was instructed to take the penalty by the designated penalty taker. He also pointed to his previously perfect penalty record for Atalanta, having converted all four penalties he had taken before the Club Brugge match.

Atalanta’s 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge saw them exit the Champions League at the play-off stage. The loss was a bitter blow for the Italian side, who had been hoping to progress to the last 16.

Following Lookman’s comments on social media, the official X account of the Nigerian men’s national team posted a message of support for the forward.

“We are with you Ade,” the message read.

This public disagreement between Lookman and Gasperini highlights the tensions within the Atalanta camp following their Champions League exit. It remains to be seen how this will affect their relationship and the team’s performances in the remaining months of the season.