Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero has strongly criticized Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini for publicly blaming Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman following the club’s shocking Champions League elimination at the hands of Club Brugge. The fallout has sparked controversy, raising questions about Lookman’s future at the club.
Atalanta’s Champions League Nightmare
Atalanta entered their tie against Club Brugge as overwhelming favorites, having ranked ninth overall in the tournament, while the Belgian side barely made it past the playoffs in 24th place. However, the Serie A club suffered a humiliating 5-2 aggregate defeat, leading to frustrations boiling over.
After losing the first leg 2-1 in Belgium, Atalanta was expected to overturn the deficit at home. Instead, they collapsed in the return leg, trailing 3-0 by halftime. Gasperini turned to Lookman, who had just returned from injury, in a desperate attempt to salvage the match. The Nigerian winger responded immediately, scoring within a minute to reignite hope.
The turning point came when Atalanta was awarded a penalty midway through the second half. Lookman stepped up but was denied by Simon Mignolet, ending any chances of a comeback. Rather than addressing the team’s defensive frailties or the red card given to captain Rafael Toloi, Gasperini directed his post-match anger at Lookman, calling him “the worst penalty taker” he had ever seen.
Del Piero Defends Lookman
Gasperini’s harsh words didn’t sit well with Italian football icon Alessandro Del Piero, who believes such criticism could destabilize the dressing room.
“The mistake on the penalty is human,” Del Piero stated via Tutto Atalanta. “Regardless of the internal dynamics, I wouldn’t have taken Gasperini’s words well. Lookman is having an extraordinary season, and yet you put him on the spot, risking cracks in the squad.”
Lookman Responds to Gasperini’s Criticism
Unwilling to stay silent, Lookman took to social media to express his disappointment.
“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,” he wrote.
“Being singled out in this manner not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful. I have always given my all for this club and its incredible fans. During the match, the designated penalty taker instructed me to take the penalty; I took responsibility. Life’s about challenges and turning pain into power, which I’ll continue to do.”
What’s Next for Lookman?
With tensions escalating between Lookman and Gasperini, Atalanta’s senior management has stepped in to mediate. High-ranking officials are scheduled to meet with the squad in Zingonia to prevent further fallout.
However, Lookman’s future at Atalanta now appears uncertain. Having been named the club’s Player of the Season for two consecutive years, the 26-year-old remains a key asset. But following this public dispute, reports suggest he could be on the move this summer.
Juventus, who also suffered a Champions League exit to PSV, are reportedly interested in signing Lookman for a potential €60 million move. Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool have also previously shown interest, making Atalanta’s hold on their star player increasingly fragile.
Lookman has been in stellar form this season, recording 15 goals and seven assists in 28 appearances across all competitions. If relations with Gasperini do not improve, the Nigerian international may soon be playing elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Publicly criticizing a player after a painful defeat is always risky, and Gasperini’s comments on Lookman have done more harm than good. As Del Piero pointed out, such remarks could fracture the dressing room and create an unnecessary crisis.
Atalanta now faces a crucial decision—either mend fences with their Nigerian star or risk losing one of their most valuable players. As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Lookman and his next move.
