The football world is buzzing with controversy after Atalanta’s head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, launched a scathing attack on Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman following the club’s shock Champions League playoff defeat to Club Brugge.
Lookman, returning from injury, made an instant impact after coming off the bench at halftime, with Atalanta already 3-0 down in the second leg at home, scoring just 35 seconds into his return.
However, the night took a dramatic turn when the Super Eagles star stepped up to take a crucial penalty in the second half.
With Atalanta trailing 3-1 on aggregate and desperate for a comeback, Lookman took the responsibility ahead of teammates Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelaere but failed to convert.
Also Read:Bayern Munich Qualify For Champions League Next Round
The missed penalty allowed Brugge to hold their lead and ultimately secure qualification to the round of 16.
After the match, Gasperini did not hold back in his criticism of Lookman,
“Ademola Lookman is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen. He took the ball despite Retegui and De Ketelaere being available to take it. I didn’t like what Lookman did.”
The remarks have sparked outrage among football fans and supporters of Lookman, who have rallied around their star player.
Many see Gasperini’s comments as unfair and disrespectful, especially given that even world-class players miss penalties under pressure.
