Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini has lavished praise on Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, highlighting the player’s remarkable growth and impact at the club. Atalanta coach speaking to italian media outlet Sosfanta analyzed Lookman’s time at the club.
Lookman, who joined Atalanta two years ago, has been a revelation in Serie A. The Nigerian forward arrived from RB Leipzig in a bargain transfer worth just €9.35 million after being deemed surplus to requirements. Now, his market value has soared to an impressive €55 million, according to Transfermarkt.
Remarkable Contributions
Since his arrival, Lookman has delivered outstanding performances for La Dea, scoring 44 goals and providing 23 assists in 98 appearances. Last season, he etched his name into Atalanta’s history by netting a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League, playing a pivotal role in the team’s triumph.
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This season, the 27-year-old has continued his stellar form, registering 12 goals and five assists in just 19 games. His incredible displays have not gone unnoticed on the global stage. Earlier this month, Lookman was named CAF Player of the Year, ranked 14th in the Ballon d’Or power rankings, and shortlisted for the FIFA Player of the Year award.
Gasperini’s Admiration
Atalanta’s head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, has been instrumental in Lookman’s development and has expressed his admiration for the Nigerian star.
“He’s [Lookman] a top player. In terms of character, there are perhaps players who have more continuity and are more solid, but that’s normal,” Gasperini said, as quoted by Sosfanta.
“Even his role is difficult. He always has to be very fit, but he has become a truly extraordinary player, among the best in Europe and the world. Because he has improved his consistency and, in some ways, he has started to be an important Atalanta player.”
When Gian Piero Gasperini took charge of Atalanta in 2016, he was only expected to avoid relegation…
In 2018 they were in the Europa League
In 2019 they qualified for the UCL for the first time ever
2024: Europa League pic.twitter.com/qETBDvhLDI— 433 (@433) May 23, 2024
Eyeing Serie A Glory
Atalanta currently sits at the summit of the Italian Serie A standings, and Lookman’s performances have been crucial in their campaign. The forward will aim to maintain his impressive form as the club chases its first-ever Serie A title.