Atalanta manager Gian Piero Giasperini has stated that his statement in the aftermath of Tuesday’s UCL elimination was not meant to upset Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman.
The 67-year old was infuriated after the 3-1 loss to Club Brugge on Tuesday, labeling Lookman as the ‘worst penalty taker’ he has seen, after the winger missed a spot-kick in the second half of the game.
The reigning African player of the year referred to the comment as hurtful and disrespectful, prompting Giasperini to insist his comments were never meant to offend the star forward.
“He had an extraordinary impact. My words were never meant to be offensive. Yesterday, in Udinese-Lecce, we saw what could have turned into a global spectacle, but fortunately, the players let it go,” he said.
“I would have liked to see a great player like him [Lookman] make a gesture toward [Charles] De Ketelaere, saying, ‘Come on, take the ball, put it in.”
Lookman has received support from past and present footballers, while the recent bust-up with the manager has also fueled rumors of an exit in the summer.
“I always speak in front of the whole team, this has never even been an issue within the club.
The player felt offended, but I never intended to offend anyone. In the end, I think it turned out well because there was no unnecessary drama”, Giasperini continued.
“I also appreciated what happened in the Udinese game, with both the players and the coach. Lookman came on against Brugge in an extraordinary way, and his gesture, even if generous, doesn’t change my opinion.”
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
