Lookman respond to Gasperini’s penalty critics

Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman, has responded to manager Gian Piero Gasperini, after been labelled as the worst penalty taker.

Lookman took to X to express his disappointment over his manager’s remark regarding his penalty loss against Club Brugge.

The Nigerian had a mixed night in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League playoffs against Club Brugge.

Coming on as a substitute, he gave his side hopes as he scored in seconds after his return from injury.

However, he went on to lose a penalty, as Atalanta lost 3-1, and 5-2 on aggregate to the Belgian side.

Meanwhile, Gasperini openly slammed the forward for the penalty loss, saying, “Ademola Lookman is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen.”

“He wanted to take the penalty after scoring a goal. He took the ball despite Retegui and De Keteleare available to take it. I didn’t like what Lookman did”, he added.

In response to the manager’s statement and accusation, the Nigerian expressed his bitterness as ‘deeply disrespectful’.

“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 every day to help bring success to this club and to the incredible fans of Bergamo,” he wrote.

Lookman went on to admit that his time in Italy has been difficult but has maintained a professional stance.

“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.

Expressing his feelings, the former Fulham man also went on to explain his reason for taking the kick, as against Gasperini’s accusation.

“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.”

Atalanta will be hoping to put aside the shocking UCL loss, as they return to action on Sunday. They will be playing Empoli, as the fight for the Serie A Scudetto continues.