Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman has hit back at his coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, after being blamed for a missed penalty that contributed to the team’s Champions League exit.
Following the defeat, Gasperini publicly criticized Lookman, implying that he should not have taken the spot-kick. However, in a lengthy statement, the Nigerian international defended himself, revealing that he was instructed to take the penalty by the team’s designated penalty taker.
"I was asked to take it," Lookman clarified, expressing disappointment at being singled out by his coach.
His response has sparked debates among fans and pundits, with many questioning Gasperini’s decision to publicly criticize an individual player after a team loss.
As Atalanta looks to bounce back from their European setback, all eyes will be on how the tension between Lookman and his coach unfolds in the coming weeks.
— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) February 19, 2025
