Atalanta’s Manager Criticizes Player’s Penalty Technique After Champions League Exit

Gian Piero Gasperini did not hold back after Ademola Lookman’s missed penalty ended any chance of a comeback. After going down 3-0 in the first half, Atalanta crashed out of the Champions League losing 3-1 to Club Brugge (5-2) on aggregate on February 18, 2025. It was a topsy-turvy game that saw Atalanta with a chance to come back after star forward Ademola Lookman was subbed on in the second half and immediately responded by scoring a goal, but after his penalty miss, it all went downhill.

Gasperini remarked, “He shouldn’t have taken the penalty. He’s one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen.” This statement reflects his frustration, as Lookman was euphoric after scoring before making the decisive mistake from the spot.

Image from the match

Lookman’s shot was powerful but easily saved by keeper Simon Mignolet. Atalanta have missed three of the eight penalties they’ve attempted this season, raising concerns over their penalty-taking strategy. Despite their recent struggles, Gasperini aims to secure a Champions League spot by finishing in the top four in Serie A.