Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has credited Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman’s success at the club to his selfless playing style.
La Dea delivered one of their most dominant performances of the season on Sunday, crushing Juventus 4-0 at the Allianz Arena. Lookman played a pivotal role in the victory, netting the fourth goal of the game. He could have added more to his tally if not for goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio’s heroics and the woodwork denying him.
The Nigerian forward’s latest strike takes his season tally to 18 goals and seven assists in 31 appearances across all competitions—already surpassing his total from last season, with more games still to play before the campaign concludes in May.
Lookman’s relationship with Gasperini has been under scrutiny in recent weeks, especially after the coach’s comments following Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League exit. However, any tensions appeared to have eased after the emphatic win against Juventus, with the pair even sharing a celebratory hug.
Speaking on Lookman’s growth, Gasperini emphasized the Nigerian’s transformation into a team-first player, a shift that has significantly elevated his game. The Italian tactician even suggested that Lookman could soon wear the captain’s armband.
“This is a perfect example—people see things differently,” Gasperini told Alfredopedulla. “Lookman became a fantastic player when he started thinking more about the team. Atalanta made him great, and he made Atalanta great. I am convinced that by the end of the season, he will wear the captain’s armband—he will have Atalanta in his skin.”
Despite his stellar performances, Lookman’s future remains uncertain. Last month, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that the 27-year-old is likely to leave Atalanta at the end of the season.
He has been linked with top European clubs, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich, though no concrete offers have emerged yet.
With just over two months left in the season, Lookman’s next move should become clear soon. If he stays fit and continues delivering standout performances, a high-profile transfer this summer seems inevitable.
🚨 Arsenal and Liverpool have both held talks over a potential deal to sign Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman. 🇳🇬
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 21, 2025
(Source: @caughtoffside) pic.twitter.com/Od3ceisLJ3
