After publicly criticizing Ademola Lookman following Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League exit, head coach Gian Piero Gasperini now appears to be backtracking, acknowledging the Nigerian as the team’s most dangerous attacking threat.
Lookman, reigning African Player of the Year, was Atalanta’s liveliest performer in their frustrating 0-0 draw against Venezia at the Gewiss Stadium.
Despite a wasteful night in front of goal—including a glaring 83rd-minute miss—the forward’s influence was undeniable.
Gasperini’s U-Turn on Ademola Lookman
Having been highly critical of Lookman’s performances in recent weeks, Gasperini took a more measured approach post-match.
“Lookman is and always remains our most lively player,” Gasperini admitted to SportItalia.
“He had multiple chances and found himself in dangerous positions several times, but unfortunately, we weren’t sharp enough to finish them off.”
The comment reveals a noticeable shift in tone after Gasperini’s harsh remarks following their Champions League elimination, where he had suggested the Nigerian lacked the cutting edge needed at the highest level.
With Atalanta slipping in the Serie A title race, Gasperini will be hoping Lookman regains his clinical form in the coming weeks.
Lookman’s Season So Far & Growing Transfer Interest
Amid recent criticism, Ademola Lookman has enjoyed a strong season, registering 15 goals and five assists in Serie A, making him the club’s second-highest scorer behind Mateo Retegui (21 goals).
Since arriving from RB Leipzig in 2022, Lookman has established himself as one of the league’s most potent attackers, with 49 goals and 23 assists in 107 appearances across all competitions.
His performances have drawn interest from Europe’s elite clubs, with reports suggesting Atalanta would be willing to sell him for around €65m (£53.8m).
- Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, and Inter Milan are all monitoring his situation.
- Manchester United, under expected new manager Ruben Amorim, are considering him as a key attacking reinforcement.
- Newcastle United, struggling for consistency in attack, also see Lookman as a potential solution.
Will Lookman Stay or Go?
While Gasperini is publicly acknowledging Lookman’s importance, the tension between them could still influence Atalanta’s decision.
With European giants circling, the Nigerian forward faces a crucial few months—will he fire Atalanta back into contention, or will this summer mark the end of his journey in Bergamo?
