Ademola Lookman blows hot after Atalanta coach labelled him ‘worst penalty taker’
Ademola Lookman
Published By: Michael Adesina
Michael Adesina
Ademola Lookman, Atalanta’s Nigerian striker, has responded to harsh criticism from coach Gian Piero Gasperini following the team’s shocking 5-2 aggregate defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League playoffs.
Gasperini lambasted Lookman, calling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he has ever seen, after the striker’s penalty kick was saved by Simon Mignolet in the 3-1 defeat on Tuesday night. Lookman had earlier scored his side’s only goal in the 46th minute.
The Italian manager expressed his disappointment, stating that Lookman was not supposed to take the penalty and that his record in training is “frankly terrible.”
Gasperini suggested that Charles De Ketelaere or Mateo Retegui should have taken the penalty instead.
However, Lookman has hit back at Gasperini’s criticism, releasing a statement that highlights his dedication and commitment to the team.
The Nigerian international expressed his sadness and hurt, feeling singled out and disrespected by Gasperini’s comments.
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The statement from Lookman reads: 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, not least because of the immense hard work and commitment I have always put in each and everyday to help bring success to this club and to the incredible fans of Bergamo.
“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. This makes what happened last night even more hurtful.
“Along with our incredible fans, we as a team are hurting too with last night’s result. During the match the designated penalty taker instructed me to take the penalty; and to support the team I took responsibility in the moment to do so.
“Life’s about challenges and turning pain into power which I’ll continue to do.”
The 27-year-old Nigeria international forward has been one of Atalanta’s star players since arriving at the club in 2022, scoring a hat-trick in the final of last season’s UEFA Europa League before being included on the shortlist for the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
