Ademola Lookman Reacts to Gasperini’s Statement After Champions League Elimination

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Atalanta striker Ademola Lookman has responded to comments made by manager Gian Piero Gasperini following the latest elimination of the team from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Club Brugge.

During the second leg of the playoff tie, Atalanta were facing a daunting 3-0 deficit at half time. Lookman, who was out with a knee injury, was brought on as a substitute and immediately made his mark by scoring 34 seconds into the second half, making the aggregate score 5-2. Lookman then failed to convert a penalty in the 61st minute that would have reduced the deficit further. After the match, Gasperini disapproved of Lookman’s efforts at scoring from the penalty spot, saying, “Lookman was not supposed to take that penalty; he is one of the worst I’ve ever seen.”

In defense, Lookman went to Twitter to voice his sentiments regarding the backlash. He reiterated his commitment to the team and explained what happened in the penalty fiasco.

“It pains me on a day like today to have to say this—above all because of what we have accomplished together as a team and as a city,” Lookman started. “To be targeted in the manner that I have not only hurts but feels profoundly disrespectful, not least because of the vast hard work and dedication.”

Referring to the penalty scenario, Lookman averred, “On the game, the one that we set to take the penalty., I moved forward in the moment.” He went on further to introspect on hurdles braved, affirming, “Life’s about challenges and turning., which I’ll keep doing.”

This public discourse has generated conversation around internal dynamics of the Atalanta team. Lookman, who was one of the star players of the team, particularly scored a hat-trick in the final of last season’s Europa League, taking Atalanta to their first ever European title. He has so far scored 15 goals across all competitions in the current season, demonstrating his value to the team.

The event has also triggered speculations concerning the fate of Lookman in the club. Despite the latest disappointment, Atalanta remain committed to their domestic title chase, sitting third in Serie A and five points off Napoli atop the league standings. The club anticipates revamping and focusing their energy towards topping the league standings.