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Gasperini Criticizes Lookman After Atalanta's Champions League Exit

Posted : 19 February 2025

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini did not hold back in his criticism of Ademola Lookman after the striker's penalty miss contributed to their Champions League elimination. Lookman had briefly revived Atalanta's hopes by scoring early in the second half, but his failure from the spot allowed Club Brugge to maintain control, sealing a 5-2 aggregate victory. Gasperini expressed frustration, stating that Lookman was never supposed to take the penalty and highlighting his poor record from the spot.

 

The Italian coach was adamant that either Charles De Ketelaere or Mateo Retegui should have taken the penalty instead. He revealed that Lookman’s decision to step up was driven by enthusiasm after scoring, a move Gasperini strongly disapproved of. He described Lookman as one of the worst penalty takers he had ever seen, pointing out the forward’s struggles even in training. Gasperini was clearly frustrated that Lookman ignored the designated penalty takers in such a crucial moment.

 

Beyond Lookman’s miss, Gasperini also criticized captain Rafael Toloi for his red card, which came after an altercation with Maxim De Cuyper. The Atalanta coach condemned Toloi’s reaction, emphasizing that such behavior was unacceptable and that the team needed to maintain composure. Despite the defeat, he urged his squad to leave the Champions League with their heads held high, having faced elite teams like Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Barcelona during their campaign.

 

With their European journey over, Atalanta will now shift focus back to Serie A, where they currently sit third. Their elimination made them the second Italian club to exit the competition after AC Milan, who lost 2-1 on aggregate to Feyenoord. Gasperini will hope his side can regroup and strengthen their domestic campaign following a disappointing end to their Champions League run.

 

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