Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has praised Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman for his leadership and development, backing him as a future captain following La Dea’s commanding 4-0 victory over Juventus.
Lookman and Gasperini had a fallout earlier this season when the Nigerian forward missed a crucial penalty in Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League play-off defeat to Club Brugge. Gasperini harshly criticized Lookman’s penalty-taking ability, which led to tensions between the two.
However, the 27-year-old has responded with stellar performances, including a brilliant goal in Atalanta’s dominant win over Juventus. Lookman was substituted in the 80th minute and shared a warm embrace with Gasperini on the touchline, signaling that the feud had been put to rest.
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“Lookman Can Be Atalanta’s Captain” – Gasperini
After the game, Gasperini lauded Lookman’s transformation and hinted that he could take up the captain’s armband in the near future.
“When a group spends 300 days together in a year, differences in opinions are natural. Lookman became a fantastic player when he improved his perception of the team,” Gasperini told Football Italia.
“He used to play with a more individual mindset. He wasn’t a bad guy, but his focus was on himself. Now, he has made Atalanta great, and Atalanta has made him great. I believe he can be captain before the end of the season.”
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Ademola Lookman and Gian Pero Gasperini (Photo credit: imago)
Lookman Shines as Atalanta Chase Serie A Glory
With Atalanta now third in Serie A, just three points behind league leaders Inter Milan, Lookman’s contributions have been vital. The Nigerian forward has scored 18 goals and provided six assists across all competitions this season, establishing himself as one of the team’s most influential players.
