Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly contemplating resigning following a public fallout with Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman.
The rift, which intensified after Atalanta’s Champions League exit, has put both their futures at the club in doubt. Lookman, who played a key role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last season, is now likely to leave this summer, with Napoli and Juventus closely monitoring the situation.
The dispute escalated after Lookman missed a crucial penalty in Atalanta’s elimination against Club Brugge. Gasperini openly criticized the winger, calling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen. Lookman fired back the next day, branding the remarks “disrespectful.”
Gasperini’s comments sparked widespread backlash, with football icons such as Alessandro Del Piero and ex-Nigerian international Duke Udi condemning his harsh words. Reports suggest the controversy nearly led the veteran coach to resign on February 19, only for Atalanta’s ownership, led by the Percassi family, to persuade him to stay until the season’s end.
Despite their European setback, Atalanta remain in contention for a Champions League spot. However, the club appears to be preparing for Gasperini’s departure, with reports indicating that former Napoli and Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri is being considered as a potential replacement.
Sarri, currently without a club following his Lazio exit, is known for his attacking philosophy—one that could fit Atalanta’s dynamic style of play. His appointment would mark a significant shift in direction for the Bergamo-based side.
While Atalanta navigate their coaching dilemma, Lookman is also attracting significant interest. The Nigerian forward, who nearly joined PSG last summer, could remain in Italy, with Juventus and Napoli emerging as frontrunners for his signature.
Atalanta previously valued Lookman at €60 million, a figure that may remain unchanged in the upcoming transfer window. Arsenal and Liverpool are also rumored to be monitoring the situation, setting up a potential bidding war for the Nigerian star.
