By Kwame Bediako
Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has openly criticized Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, labelling him as one of the worst penalty takers he has ever encountered. The remarks came following Lookman’s costly miss in Atalanta’s 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League knockout round play-offs on Tuesday.
Lookman, who was recently named Africa’s Best Player at the 2024 CAF Awards, had momentarily given his team hope by scoring their only goal of the game. However, his decision to take the penalty, despite having other designated takers available, drew the ire of Gasperini. Retegui and De Keteleare were reportedly on hand to take the spot-kick, but Lookman opted to step up. Gasperini was not impressed with the choice.
“I didn’t like what Lookman did,” Gasperini fumed after the match. “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 being available to take it; I didn’t like what Lookman did.” The missed penalty proved to be costly, as Atalanta failed to mount a comeback, resulting in their elimination from the competition.
The criticism has left Lookman, who has been in stellar form this season, facing unwanted attention despite his impressive individual performances. While many fans and analysts have praised his overall game, the missed penalty has become a defining moment of controversy in his career. Gasperini’s remarks have sparked debate about leadership and decision-making under pressure in high-stakes matches.
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