Atalanta’s hierarchy have made their stance clear, firmly backing Ademola Lookman in the ongoing rift with manager Gian Piero Gasperini.
Following Gasperini’s public criticism of Lookman after the club’s Champions League exit, co-president Stephen Gerard Pagliuca and CEO Luca Percassi have emphasized the forward’s importance, signaling a shift in priorities at the club.
The fallout began after the Nigerian missed a crucial penalty in Atalanta’s Champions League elimination, prompting Gasperini to label him “the worst penalty taker” he had ever seen. The public rebuke sparked backlash, leading to intervention from the club’s leadership.
“We have a great coach, very passionate. He made a mistake when he spoke about an individual, because at Atalanta we have a policy: if things go badly, we take the blame, we look at ourselves, at how to do better.” Pagliuca told Gazzetta dello Sport.
CEO Luca Percassi reinforced this stance, highlighting Lookman’s contributions and the team’s collective effort:
“The players are having an extraordinary season, we wouldn't be where we are now if it weren't like that, without the contribution of Lookman, De Ketelaere… The whole team, I should name them all.”
Gasperini's stunning reaction to Atalanta's Lookman stance
With the club publicly siding against him, Gasperini’s future at Atalanta appears increasingly uncertain.
The long-serving coach, who has been instrumental in Atalanta’s rise, hinted on Monday at an early departure despite his contract running until 2026.
For years, Gasperini’s authority at Atalanta had been unquestioned, but recent developments suggest a power shift.
His once-untouchable status is fading, and should the club fail to secure Champions League qualification, the Lookman dispute may mark the beginning of the end for his tenure in Bergamo.
