Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has heaped praise on Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman following his outstanding performance in the club’s 4-0 victory over Juventus on Sunday. Lookman scored in the dominant win and was substituted in the 80th minute, receiving a heartfelt embrace from Gasperini on the sidelines.
Despite a previous fallout in February, when Lookman missed a crucial penalty in a Champions League match against Club Brugge, Gasperini now acknowledges the significant growth in the Super Eagles star’s game. The manager highlighted Lookman’s improvement in tactical awareness and his growing contribution to the team’s overall performance.
“When a group spends 300 days together in a year, different perspectives can arise,” Gasperini explained during a post-match press conference, according to Football Italia. He pointed out that Lookman’s development as a more team-oriented player has been crucial in enhancing his own game and Atalanta’s collective performance.
“Lookman became a fantastic player when he improved his understanding of the team. He used to focus more on his individual play,” Gasperini added.
Impressed by Lookman’s evolution, Gasperini expressed confidence that the Nigerian international could be Atalanta’s captain before the season concludes. “Lookman made Atalanta great, and Atalanta made him great. I am convinced he can become the captain before the end of the season,” he said.
Currently enjoying a strong run of form, Lookman has scored 13 goals and provided five assists in 22 Serie A appearances this season, further cementing his importance to the team.
