Atalantas Secret Weapon: The Unstoppable Lookman

Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini appears to be softening his stance on Ademola Lookman, acknowledging the Nigerian forward as their most dynamic player despite a goalless draw against Venezia at the Gewiss Stadium, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Lookman and his teammates faced a frustrating evening as Atalanta were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw, squandering crucial opportunities that could have secured a crucial victory in their pursuit of the Serie A title.

The reigning African Player of The Year’s most notable miss came in the 83rd minute when he shot over the bar from close range after Sead Kolasinac’s flicked header left him unmarked.

Gasperini had criticized the player following their elimination from the UEFA Champions League a few days ago, but despite failing to score, the coach couldn’t help but commend Lookman’s impact on the team.

“Lookman continues to be our most dynamic player,” Gasperini stated as per SportItalia. “He had several chances and found himself in dangerous positions multiple times, but unfortunately, we lacked the sharpness to convert them. Retegui also had opportunities, but currently, we are less precise.”

As Atalanta falls behind in the title race, Gasperini will be relying on Lookman to regain his clinical touch in the upcoming matches.

The Nigerian has scored 15 goals and provided five assists in Serie A this season, making him the club’s second-highest goal scorer behind Mateo Retegui (21), despite missing several weeks due to injury.

Since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022, the former Everton player has established himself as one of Serie A’s most potent attackers, accumulating an impressive 49 goals and 23 assists in 107 competitive matches.

Despite the ongoing tension with Gasperini, reports suggest that the Italian club is willing to sell their star player if they receive offers in the region of €65m (£53.)