Former Nigeria international Duke Udi has called on Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman to leave Atalanta at the end of the season, following controversial remarks made by head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
The tension arose after Lookman missed a crucial penalty during Atalanta’s 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League, prompting Gasperini to publicly criticize the Nigerian forward.
The coach labelled Lookman as “one of the worst penalty takers he has ever seen,” a statement that sparked backlash from fans and football experts alike.
Speaking to Africa Foot, Duke Udi condemned Gasperini’s comments, describing them as damaging and disrespectful.
“A team is built on unity and support, especially during tough moments,” Udi said. “For a coach to humiliate a player publicly, especially one who has been instrumental for the club, is deeply inappropriate.”
“Disrespected in the Worst Possible Way”
Udi, who has closely followed Lookman’s progress in Italy, believes the coach’s remarks have crossed a professional boundary.
He emphasized that Lookman has consistently delivered for Atalanta and deserved better treatment.
“Lookman has been one of Atalanta’s standout performers over the past seasons,” Udi stated.
“To be disrespected in the worst possible way after one missed penalty is unacceptable.
Players thrive when they feel valued and supported, not when they’re ridiculed in public.”
The former Super Eagles star went on to advise Lookman to seek opportunities elsewhere, insisting that such treatment could impact the player’s morale and future performances.
“Sometimes, leaving is the best option,” Udi added. “Lookman has proven his quality time and again.
There are clubs out there that would appreciate his talent and stand by him through mistakes.”
A Tension-Filled Atmosphere at Atalanta
Ademola Lookman, who has been pivotal for Atalanta since joining the club, has enjoyed notable success under Gasperini’s management, contributing key goals and assists.
However, Gasperini’s sharp critique has cast a shadow over their professional relationship, leaving fans questioning whether Lookman will remain at the club beyond the current campaign.
For many observers, Gasperini’s comments not only risk alienating Lookman but also send a broader message about the club’s handling of player welfare.
In modern football, where mental health and player support are increasingly prioritized, public criticism of this magnitude can have lasting effects.
“Coaches need to realize that leadership is about lifting players, not tearing them down,” Udi stressed. “Mistakes happen in football.
Even the greatest players miss penalties. What matters is how the team responds—and in this case, Atalanta failed their player.”
What Next for Lookman?
As the end of the season approaches, speculation around Lookman’s future is expected to intensify.
While he has not publicly responded to Gasperini’s remarks, insiders suggest that the player is weighing his options, with interest reportedly growing from clubs in England and Spain.
For now, the focus remains on Atalanta’s remaining fixtures and their Champions League ambitions.
But as Udi’s comments highlight, the fracture between Lookman and his coach could make his continued stay in Bergamo increasingly unlikely.
“Lookman has the potential to shine anywhere,” Udi concluded. “He doesn’t need to stay where he’s not respected.
It’s time for him to move on and find a team that truly values his contribution.”
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