What Gasperini said about Lookman after Super Eagles star bagged brace as Atalanta thrash Empoli

Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has heaped praise on Ademola Lookman after the Nigerian winger produced a dazzling display in their 5-0 demolition of Empoli on Sunday, Footynaija.com reports.

Lookman netted twice in the resounding victory, helping Atalanta close the gap on Serie A leaders Inter Milan to just three points.

Lookman goes round the ‘keeper! #EmpoliAtalanta 0-3 pic.twitter.com/um0VpW4y11

— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) February 23, 2025

The 26-year-old’s brace took his season tally to 17 goals across all competitions, equalling his total from last season with 12 league matches still to play.

Despite recent tension between Lookman and Gasperini, the Atalanta boss was effusive in his admiration for the Super Eagles star’s performance. Speaking in his post-match press conference, Gasperini said:

“Lookman has always scored a lot of goals, at least since he joined Atalanta. He has become an extraordinary player, especially when he puts himself at the disposal of the team. He said that he feels a bond with the fans, and I appreciate that very much.”

Pain into Power ⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/5XodSmN5nu

— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) February 23, 2025

However, signs of an uneasy relationship between player and coach remained when Lookman was substituted in the 76th minute, with the pair failing to exchange a handshake.

When asked about the incident, Gasperini brushed it off, insisting professionalism remains paramount.

“I don’t know what you mean by professionalism, but it’s the best way to move forward. Professionalism on my part? We’re all professionals, we had a good match and scored good goals,” he responded.

With two goals, Ademola Lookman is the Panini Player of the Match for #EmpoliAtalanta pic.twitter.com/lgLeL9YVNu

— Lega Serie A (@SerieA_EN) February 23, 2025

Lookman’s stellar form has seen him emerge as one of Serie A’s most valuable players, with speculation growing that he could attract interest from top European clubs in the summer transfer window.

For now, though, the Nigerian forward remains focused on Atalanta’s title ambitions. With just three points separating them from Inter, Lookman could play a pivotal role in their push for the Scudetto.