Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has clarified that his comments following their UEFA Champions League loss to Club Brugge on Tuesday were not meant to offend Ademola Lookman.
Lookman, who recently returned from injury, made an immediate impact by scoring after coming off the bench. However, he later missed a penalty, which drew criticism from Gasperini. The coach, frustrated after their 5-2 aggregate defeat, described Lookman as the worst penalty taker he had ever seen.
In response to Lookman’s displeasure over the remarks, Gasperini has now explained that his intention was not to disrespect the Nigerian international and reigning African Footballer of the Year.
“Lookman felt offended, but I didn’t want to offend anyone. He entered with fantastic approach against Club Brugge.
“If he starts training to improve on penalties… with his exceptional skills Ademola can become our first penalty taker.” Gasperini said
Atalanta currently occupy the third position on the Serie A table and have a league tie against Empoli on Sunday.