Gasperini Praises Ademola Lookman for Key Role in Atalanta’s Early Season Success
Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has credited Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman with making a significant contribution to the team’s impressive start to the current season, despite not featuring in their latest UEFA Champions League game against Young Boys.
While Lookman wasn’t on the pitch for the 6-1 win, his teammates delivered a compelling performance, with standout contributions from players like Charles de Ketelaere, Mateo Retegui, and Sead Kolasinac, who were instrumental in the team’s dominant victory.
Gasperini acknowledged Lookman’s valuable contributions in the previous season, highlighting that the team’s current successes are built upon the achievements of players like him.
Gasperini expressed satisfaction with the team’s recent form in both Italy and Europe, stating, “We’re in the midst of a very good run of form, both in Italy and Europe.” He believes the team’s confidence has grown as a result of their past successes.
“Winning the Europa League last season has been crucial; it’s instilled confidence and self-belief within the squad. While we’ve seen new players improve, it was last season’s success, driven by key players like Lookman, that set the tone for our current campaign,” Gasperini explained.
Lookman’s performance in the Europa League final last season was instrumental in their win against Bayer Leverkusen, earning him recognition as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.
Since joining Atalanta in 2022, Ademola Lookman has consistently demonstrated his skills, attracting interest from top clubs like Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid. This season, he has netted nine goals and provided five assists in just 15 appearances, leading to speculation that Atalanta values him at over £60 million.
As Atalanta looks ahead to their upcoming fixtures, including a crucial match against AS Roma and high-stakes clashes with AC Milan and Real Madrid, Lookman’s influence on the team remains crucial.
