Lookman responds perfectly to Gasperini over penalty criticism

Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has publicly responded to criticism from Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini, following the team’s 5-2 aggregate loss to Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League.

Lookman, who came on as a substitute and scored 35 seconds into the second half, missed a penalty in the 61st minute that could have sparked an unlikely comeback.

Gasperini expressed his displeasure with Lookman’s decision to take the penalty, stating that Lookman was not the designated penalty taker and had a “terrible record” even in training.

“He has a frankly terrible record; even in training, he converts very few of them,” Gasperini said.

In response, Lookman took to social media on Wednesday to express his disappointment with Gasperini’s comments, which he felt were disrespectful and hurtful.

“It saddens me on a day like this to have to write this statement—most of all because of what we have achieved together as a team and as a city,” Lookman said.

“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 added.

Lookman said his commitment to the club and highlighted the difficult moments he endured at Atalanta.

“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,” he said.

Regarding the penalty incident, Lookman clarified that the designated penalty taker instructed him to take the penalty.

“I took responsibility in the moment to do so. Life’s about challenges and turning pain into power, which I’ll continue to do,” he said.

This public disagreement between Lookman and Gasperini has fueled speculation about a potential summer exit for the Nigerian forward.

Despite the recent criticism, Lookman has been instrumental in Atalanta’s success this season, scoring 15 goals and providing six assists in 28 appearances across all competitions.