Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman and coach Gian Piero Gasperini have shocked fans by putting their past differences behind them, following a dramatic fallout that almost seemed to threaten their relationship.
The tension began after Lookman missed a crucial penalty in Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League tie against Club Brugge.
Gasperini did not hold back in his criticism, calling Lookman “one of the worst penalty takers” he’d ever seen, sparking a heated response from the winger, who accused the coach of being “disrespectful.”
But now, just months later, the pair’s reconciliation has taken center stage. Following Atalanta’s 4-0 victory over Juventus, Lookman and Gasperini shared an emotional embrace, signaling the end of their public dispute.
Photo by Imago
Davide Zappacosta, one of Lookman’s teammates, praised their maturity in resolving the issue, saying, “The embrace between Gasperini and Lookman? It was a nice gesture from both. The coach spoke well. It’s football, these things happen when you spend so much time together.”
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After the win over Juventus, Gasperini expressed his belief that Lookman could become the team’s captain before the season concludes, citing his remarkable growth both as a player and as a team member.
“Lookman became a fantastic player when he improved his perception of the team,” Gasperini said. “I am convinced he can be the captain before the end of the season.”
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Atalanta are currently third in Serie A, and a victory against Inter Milan tonight could see them take the top spot in the league. The stunning turnaround from feud to reconciliation has added another layer of intrigue to their season.
