Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has responded to criticism over his handling of Ademola Lookman following the controversial penalty incident.
The Italian coach, unapologetic in his remarks, addressed the situation head-on, emphasizing that there was no intention to offend the Nigerian forward.
“Lookman felt offended… but I did 𝐧𝐨𝐭 want to offend anyone! Ademola had entered with a fantastic approach against Club Brugge, and I do really value that highly,” Gasperini stated.
The controversy arose during Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League second-leg playoff against Club Brugge. Trailing 3-1 on the night and 5-2 on aggregate, Lookman—who had scored within 30 seconds of coming on as a substitute in the second half—was given the chance to take a crucial penalty. However, he missed, and Atalanta’s hopes of a comeback faded.
After the game, Gasperini made a blunt remark, calling Lookman the worst penalty taker in the squad and stating that he should not have taken the spot-kick. The statement sparked widespread backlash, with fans and analysts criticizing the coach for his comments.
READ ALSO: Lookman Atalanta Eliminated from UCL After 3-1 Loss to Brugge
In an effort to clarify his stance, Gasperini later insisted that Lookman remains a key player for Atalanta and could even become their primary penalty taker in the future.
“If he starts training to improve on penalties… with his exceptional skills, Ademola can surely become our first penalty taker for the future,” he added.
With speculation surrounding Lookman’s future at the club, Gasperini suggested that external narratives might be distorting the reality within Atalanta.
“I have the feeling that there is a will to portray Atalanta as being in turmoil, but the reality is quite different,” he remarked.
Despite the reassurances, reports suggest Lookman is expected to leave Atalanta in the summer, bringing an end to his stint with the Italian side. The Nigerian forward has been linked with a move away, and this latest incident could further cement his departure when the transfer window opens.