Gasperini Labels Lookman as ‘One of the Most Inept Penalty Takers I’ve Ever Witnessed’

Atalanta’s manager Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed his disappointment in striker Ademola Lookman, labelling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he’s ever encountered, following Lookman’s missed penalty that thwarted a potential comeback in their 3-1 loss to Club Brugge in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Lookman managed to net a goal early in the second half, reducing Brugge’s hefty 3-0 half-time lead. However, his opportunity to further close the gap fell short when his penalty was saved by goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, resulting in Atalanta’s elimination with a 5-2 aggregate defeat.

The coach didn’t hold back on his criticism of the Nigerian international, suggesting that either Charles De Ketelaere or striker Mateo Retegui should have taken the penalty instead.

“Lookman should not have taken that penalty; he is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen,” the Italian coach stated during the post-match conference.

“His penalty-taking record, even in training, is frankly terrible, as he scores very few. Retegui and De Ketelaere were available, but Lookman, in a moment of excitement after scoring, decided to grab the ball, and I found that gesture quite disappointing.”

Gasperini also had words for Atalanta’s captain, Rafael Toloi, who received a straight red card for pushing Maxim De Cuyper following a dispute over a throw-in.

“That was an unfortunate incident, and we must never lose our composure,” he remarked.

“Atalanta should exit the Champions League with dignity, having played commendable matches against prestigious clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Barcelona.”

Atalanta, currently sitting third in Serie A, has followed AC Milan, the first Italian club to depart the Champions League, after their 1-1 draw with Feyenoord, which culminated in a 2-1 aggregate loss.