Despite being one of Atalanta‘s standout players, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ademola-lookman/">Ademola Lookman</a> has found himself at the center of controversy following the team’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Club Brugge. After receiving harsh criticism from coach <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/gian-piero-gasperini/">Gian Piero Gasperini</a>, reports suggest that Lookman will leave Atalanta at the end of the season.



In the 1-3 defeat to Club Brugge, Lookman missed a penalty in the 60th minute, which prompted a public outburst from Gasperini. “Ademola Lookman is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen,” the Italian coach said, questioning why Lookman, rather than Mateo Retegui or Charles De Ketelaere, had taken the penalty. This led to a statement from the club.



According to Sky Sports‘ Sacha Tavolieri, Lookman is set to depart <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/atalanta/">Atalanta</a> in the summer. A major factor behind this decision, and the growing discomfort within his camp, is Gasperini’s dismissive comments regarding Lookman’s role in the team.



Ahead of Atalanta’s Serie A clash with Empoli, Gasperini addressed the growing tension surrounding the club. “I didn’t get the sense that there was this big fuss; it was mostly a media issue,” he said. “I almost feel that for some, it might be beneficial to describe Atalanta as an environment that’s falling apart, but all of this works against Atalanta, not just against me and Lookman. My comment wasn’t meant to be offensive towards him.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250225_WST_556683_Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-1200x675_afa6bf89.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-556685" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/24195854/Gian-Piero-Gasperini-Atalanta.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



In response to the controversy, Lookman put in a strong performance against Empoli, scoring twice and earning the MVP award. Despite remaining a regular starter for Atalanta, reports suggest Lookman is now considering a return to the Premier League.


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<h2>Liverpool, Arsenal, and Saudi Arabia eyeing Lookman</h2>



Lookman’s performances, including a standout hat-trick in the 2023-24 UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, have caught the attention of several top clubs. With his departure from Atalanta looking increasingly likely, Liverpool, Arsenal, and the Saudi Pro League are among the potential destinations for the winger.



Tavolieri reports that Liverpool has already been in contact with both Atalanta and Lookman, with the club eyeing him as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah. Arsenal, meanwhile, has made inquiries but has yet to take concrete steps in comparison to Liverpool.



While the Saudi Pro League has not yet made an official approach, Lookman has reportedly expressed to his entourage that he would be open to a move to the league if the opportunity arises. With 29 appearances, 17 goals, and 7 assists so far this season with Atalanta, Lookman will undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after players in the 2025 summer transfer market.

Ademola Lookman reportedly set to leave Atalanta after criticism from coach Gasperini

Ademola Lookman reportedly set to leave Atalanta after criticism from coach Gasperini - World Soccer Talk

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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/atalanta">Atalanta</a> forward Ademola Lookman has publicly criticized manager <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/gian-piero-gasperini/">Gian Piero Gasperini</a> for his post-match comments following Atalanta’s Champions League elimination. Lookman expressed his disappointment and hurt at Gasperini’s assessment of him as “one of the worst penalty takers” he’s ever seen. 



This rebuke follows Atalanta’s 3-1 home defeat to Club Brugge, resulting in a 5-2 aggregate loss and elimination from the Champions League. Lookman’s response highlights the strained relationship between player and manager and the intensity of emotions following a significant defeat.



Gasperini’s criticism of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ademola-lookman">Lookman</a> centered on his penalty miss against Club Brugge. Lookman, having scored Atalanta’s only goal, took the penalty himself, despite teammates Charles De Ketelaere and Mateo Retegui being available. 



His missed penalty, saved by Simon Mignolet, prompted Gasperini’s sharp rebuke. Lookman responded with a statement on Instagram, expressing his disappointment and emphasizing his dedication and commitment to the club. He also noted his history of facing challenges during his time at Atalanta, implying a long-standing issue between the two.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="443" height="756" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20250219_WST_555567_WhatsApp-Image-2025-02-19-at-14.35.16_2b35a71d.webp&amp;width=443&amp;height=756" alt="" class="wp-image-555570" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/19123539/WhatsApp-Image-2025-02-19-at-14.35.16.jpeg 443w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/19123539/WhatsApp-Image-2025-02-19-at-14.35.16-176x300.jpeg 176w" sizes="(max-width: 443px) 100vw, 443px"></figure></figure>



<h2>The penalty incident and Lookman’s renalty record</h2>



The penalty incident occurred in a crucial moment of the match. Lookman’s decision to take the penalty, despite his less-than-perfect penalty-taking record (four goals, two misses in six attempts), fueled Gasperini’s criticism. 



The manager’s focus on the penalty miss further highlighted the intense pressure and disappointment following a significant defeat, showcasing his frustration and immediate reaction to a key moment during the match. Lookman’s attempt was a panenka, a famously risky approach to penalty-taking.



Gasperini also criticized Atalanta captain Rafael Toloi for receiving a red card late in the match. The combination of these critical comments and the overall disappointment following the Champions League exit created further tension within the club. Lookman’s public response suggests that there may be an ongoing conflict between player and manager.

Lookman vs. Gasperoni: Atalanta forward defends himself after being labeled 'the worst penalty taker'

Lookman vs. Gasperini: Atalanta forward defends himself after being labeled 'the worst penalty taker' - World Soccer Talk

Lookman vs. Gasperini: Atalanta forward defends himself after being labeled ‘the worst penalty taker’

<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/atalanta/">Atalanta</a> and Nigeria forward <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ademola-lookman/">Ademola Lookman</a> has been named the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, capping off a remarkable year for club and country. Lookman’s acceptance speech included a powerful message of perseverance and overcoming adversity.



Lookman’s selection as CAF African Player of the Year comes as little surprise, particularly after he became the first Atalanta player ever to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, finishing 14th. His standout performances in 2024, including a hat-trick in the Europa League final victory against Bayer Leverkusen, solidified his status as a leading candidate. 



He also earned a place in the Europa League Team of the Year. His 2024 goal and assist totals (27 goals and 12 assists) speak for themselves.



In his acceptance speech, Lookman expressed his gratitude and shared a powerful message: “I want to thank almighty God for everything that He’s been doing in my life… I want to thank the Presidents, all my teammates, club and country, for their support and the love that they give me… This award is for me, my family, my nation and to be recognised as the best player in Africa is something incredible. I am extremely proud. Just over four years ago I failed in front of the world. Fast forward four years, I’m the best player in Africa. I want to say to all the young children and people watching this, don’t let your failures weigh you down or break your wings. Turn your pain into your power and continue to fly. God bless.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241216_WST_544391_Ademola-Lookman-1200x675_7e93d277.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-544395" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/16162238/Ademola-Lookman.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Lookman’s career path and success at Atalanta</h2>



Lookman’s reference to “failing in front of the world” is a nod to a missed penalty for Fulham in 2020. His journey from that moment to being crowned the best player in Africa underscores his resilience and determination.


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Lookman began his career at Charlton Athletic’s academy before moving to Everton, RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester City. His career truly flourished after joining Atalanta in 2022, benefitting from coach Gian Piero Gasperini’s guidance.



Notably, the award win for Ademola Lookman is something of a surprise given the high caliber of African talent currently playing in Europe’s top leagues. Neither Sadio Mané nor Mohamed Salah, both previous winners, featured among the nominees this year, highlighting the ever-shifting landscape of African football and the emergence of new stars.

Discover who is set to be the best African player of 2024 - beyond Salah and Mané

Neither Mohamed Salah nor Sadió Mané: Who will be the best African player of 2024? - World Soccer Talk

Who will claim the title of best African player in 2024 if not Salah or Mané?

Neither Mohamed Salah nor Sadió Mané: Who will be the best African player of 2024?

For the first time this season, Bayer Leverkusen lost a game. Atalanta collected its first international trophy by defeating the German side in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/europa-league-tv-schedule/">Europa League</a> Final on Wednesday. Leverkusen, which already secured the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/bundesliga-tv-schedule/">Bundesliga</a> and can still win the DFB-Pokal Final, will not be the second German side to win a treble. Instead, it is Atalanta to earn a second top trophy in its history. 



One week ago, Atalanta fell to Juventus in the Coppa Italia Final in a bid to claim a second title in that competition. Having effectively secured a Champions League spot in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/serie-a-tv-schedule/">Serie A</a> this season, this was the last truly meaningful game for the Italian side.



The difference in the game was Ademola Lookman. The former Everton, Fulham and Leicester winger scored a hat trick in the Europa League Final. In doing so, the Nigerian is the first player to score a hat trick in a Europa League Final. Interestingly, it was Lookman’s first career hat trick. A disjointed Leverkusen side never looked like much of a threat. Xabi Alonso’s side, which always had a late, dramatic comeback in the cards, totaled just three shots on target, never truly testing Juan Musso in the Atalanta net. 



This is also the crowning moment for Gian Piero Gasperini. Gasperini has been the manager of Atalanta since the 2016/17 season, and he has been instrumental in turning Atalanta into a dangerous side. Despite three third-place finishes and a pair of fourth places, Atalanta lacked a trophy. Three runner-up finishes in the Coppa Italia left the side frustrated. Now, it is a European champion bound for a return to the UEFA Champions League.



Atalanta is the first Italian team to win the Europa League or UEFA Cup since Parma in 1999.



<h2>Lookman’s hat trick guides Atalanta to Europa League dominance</h2>



Leverkusen has not been known to have elite starts to games. Instead, the German outfit made its work known in the second half, often relying on late-game dramatics to rescue results. Atalanta took advantage. Twelve minutes into the game, Lookman reacted the fastest on a cross in the Leverkusen box. His outstretched left foot <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/1793360546978218324" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dunked the ball</a> into the back of the net.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240522_WST_508568_Atalanta-Europa-League-1200x670_1dca8ca1.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-508612" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/05/Atalanta-Europa-League-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/05/Atalanta-Europa-League-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/05/Atalanta-Europa-League-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/05/Atalanta-Europa-League.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Lookman secured his brace after just 26 minutes. Sloppy hold-up play from Leverkusen let the ball fall to Lookman. The Nigerian skinned Granit Xhaka before his <a href="https://x.com/CBSSportsGolazo/status/1793364095171006944" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">low curling effort</a> beat Matěj Kovář. Atalanta would carry that two-goal lead into the second half, with Leverkusen struggling to mount any form of offense. Atalanta’s defensive shape stunted the creativity of players like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.



By comparison, Atalanta always looked dangerous. The best of Lookman’s three goals was the third. With 15 minutes to play in the 90, Lookman picked up the ball just outside the Leverkusen box. One stepover later, the Nigerian had the space for a thunderous left-footed strike that flew into the top corner of the goal. That was the moment of defeat for Leverkusen, as Xabi Alonso looked helplessly at a three-goal deficit. 



Even Leverkusen, which was <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/leverkusen-unbeaten-run-tops-grandeur-of-arsenal-invincibles/">unbeatable for the entire season</a> to this point, could not overcome a gap this large. Much less, it failed to penetrate the Atalanta defense at all. The Italian side claimed the Europa League on the biggest night in the club’s history.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Atalanta wins Europa League, ends Leverkusen's unbeaten run

Atalanta collected its first European trophy by defeating German side Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League Final on Wednesday.

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