Nigerian striker Ademola Lookman says his manager Jan Piero Gasperini’s comments describing him as one of the “worst penalty takers” he had ever seen after Tuesday’s Champions League knockout playoff exit were deeply “hurtful” and “disrespectful”
Club Brugge became the first Belgian side to win a Champions League knockout game as teenager Chemsdine Talbi’s double helped his side to get a three-goal lead at Atalanta before they held on for a 3-1 victory to reach the last 16 by 5-2 on aggregate.
Ademola Lookman who returned from injury, pulled back one goal for Atalanta but then had a penalty saved by veteran goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.
“Being singled out in the manner I have been not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful, not least because of the immense hard work and commitment I have always put in each and every day to help bring success to this club and the incredible fans of Bergamo.”- the 2024 African player of the year said on social media.
“In truth, have dealt with many difficult moments during my time here – the majority of which I have never spoken about because in my opinion the team must always be protected and must come first.”
This makes what happened last night even more hurtful. Along with our incredible fans, we as a team are hurting too with last night’s result.
During the match the designated penalty taker instructed me to take the penalty, and to support the team I took responsibility in the moment to do so. Life’s about challenges and turning pain into power which I’ll continue to do.”
Gasperini said Lookman has a terrible record even in training, adding that Mateo Retegui and Charles De Ketelare were better options to take the penalty.
