Despite ending a two-month goal drought in Atalanta’s emphatic 4-0 win over relegated Monza, Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman came under criticism from his coach Gian Piero Gasperini. While Lookman scored in the second half to help solidify Atalanta’s grip on third place in Serie A and strengthen their Champions League qualification bid, Gasperini revealed he was "not too happy" with the winger’s first-half performance.
"Lookman did well in the second half; I wasn’t too happy with him in the first," Gasperini said post-match.
This tension follows a reported fallout between the player and coach after Atalanta’s Champions League exit. Speculation now surrounds both their futures, with multiple reports suggesting that Lookman and Gasperini could leave the Bergamo-based club this summer.
Editorial
Ademola Lookman’s goal against Monza should’ve been a moment of celebration—his return to the scoresheet after two dry months, in a match that all but secured Atalanta’s Champions League spot. Instead, it was overshadowed by coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s stinging post-match criticism.
While coaches have the right to demand more from their players, public criticism especially in victory risks further straining a clearly fragile relationship. The timing, tone, and context of Gasperini’s comments may reflect deeper cracks behind the scenes.
If both parties are indeed heading for the exit, this season’s strong finish might be the final act in a story that could’ve gone further. For Lookman, the goal was a reminder of his quality. For Gasperini, the comments may be a sign that his focus has already shifted to what's next.
Did You Know?
- Ademola Lookman has scored 10+ goals in back-to-back Serie A seasons since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022.
- Gian Piero Gasperini has managed Atalanta since 2016, making him one of Serie A’s longest-serving managers.
- Atalanta's 4–0 win over Monza was their biggest away league win of the 2024–25 season.
- Lookman is one of only two Nigerian players to score in Serie A, the Bundesliga, and the Premier League.
- Atalanta last qualified for the UEFA Champions League in the 2020–21 season before their expected return next year.
