Atalanta and Nigerian superstar Ademola Lookman has responded to manager Gian Piero Giasperini’s criticism after the Italian club were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League.
Lookman has been immense for Atalanta since joining from RB Leipzing, with his hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final winning the club’s second ever major trophy, the first since 1963.
Following the Champions League loss, during a post match interview, Atalanta boss Gasperini didn’t hold back in his critique of his sides performance, calling out Ademola Lookman to be one of the worst penalty takers he has ever seen.
“He wanted to take the penalty after scoring a goal, he took the ball despite (Mateo) Retegui and (Charles) De Keteleare available to take it… I didn’t like what Lookman did,” Gasperini said
Lookman has responded to his manager, giving his side of the story.
— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) February 19, 2025
“Being singled out in the manner I have not only hurts, but feels deeply disrespectful,” Lookman said in a social media post on Wednesday.
“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 the incredible fans of Bergamo.”
Photo: Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images