Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has praised Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman after his team’s dominant 4-0 victory over Juventus.
Despite past tensions between the pair, Gasperini highlighted Lookman’s leadership on the pitch, which helped lift Atalanta to third place in Serie A.
The duo’s relationship soured earlier when Lookman missed a penalty in a UEFA Champions League play-off against Club Brugge.
Gasperini publicly criticized him as the “worst penalty taker,” a comment the Nigerian forward did not take well. However, Lookman stayed focused and delivered stellar performances to redeem himself.
In the Juventus clash, Lookman scored a brilliant goal before being substituted in the 80th minute. On the sidelines, he embraced Gasperini, signaling an end to their dispute.
After the match, Gasperini lauded Lookman’s evolution as a team player. He emphasized how Lookman shifted from an individualistic style to becoming a vital asset for Atalanta. The coach even expressed confidence in Lookman’s potential to become the club captain soon.
With 18 goals and six assists this season, Lookman is one of Atalanta’s standout players. The team is just three points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan,
