Gasperini had earlier slammed Lookman after taking and missing a penalty despite knowing he wasn’t anointed to take spot kicks
By Kehinde Okeowo
Atalanta manager, Gian Piero Gasperini has once again taken a dig at Nigerian winger, Ademola Lookman, despite his team’s impressive outing on Sunday.
The Italian tactician and the Super Eagle’s forward were involved in a bitter row last week following Atalanta’s disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League (UCL).
Gasperini slammed the Nigeria international for taking and missing a penalty despite knowing he wasn’t anointed to take spot kicks.
Reacting to the comment, an infuriated Lookman labelled his manager’s comment disrespectful.
He went on to emphasize his dedication to the Seria A club and the hard work he has put in since joining Atalanta.
“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. Being singled out in the manner I have been not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful,” Lookman wrote on social media.
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While it seems the hostility has ended, Gasperini once again aimed another swipe at the winger after Sunday night’s 5-0 thumping of Empoli.
The 67-year-old sent a reminder that while Atalanta owe a lot to Lookman, it very much goes two ways.
“Lookman has always scored a lot of goals, at least since he joined Atalanta.
“He has become an extraordinary player, especially when he puts himself at the disposal of the team,” he told a press conference.
Gasperini added, “He (Lookman) said that he feels a bond with the fans and I appreciate that very much.”
