Ademola Lookman credits Gian Piero Gasperini for Life-changing opportunity at Atalanta

By Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Ademola Lookman has credited Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini for the pivotal role he played in the growth of his career.

Lookman joined Atalanta in 2022, the same year he made the decision to represent Nigeria, and his career has since flourished. The 27-year-old winger has become one of the standout players in Serie A, with eight goals and four assists in just 12 league appearances this season.

His performances have been instrumental in Atalanta’s charge towards their first-ever Scudetto, as they sit atop the league, two points ahead of second-placed Napoli.

The winger has also impressed on the European stage, contributing two goals and one assist in the Champions League. He will be looking to continue his strong form as Atalanta prepare for a crucial match against Real Madrid, hoping to secure automatic qualification for the Champions League round of 16.

Reflecting on his growth under Gasperini, Lookman explained that the coach’s clear communication and focus on his strengths have been key to his development.

“I think that from the first moment I arrived, the coach always told me what he wanted from me, he spoke to me clearly, he told me to focus on my qualities and make them available to the team,” Lookman said, as quoted by Tutto Atalanta.

Lookman went on to acknowledge the impact that Bergamo, the city where Atalanta is based, has had on his focus and development.

“In the last two years, I have tried to improve my game; the city of Bergamo has given me a lot; it helps me to focus on what I have to do,” he added.

Under Gasperini’s guidance, Lookman believes the team has grown significantly both physically and mentally.

“We have shown a lot; we have grown as a team. I think that each of us has grown a lot, at a different level, both in the legs and in the mind,” he continued.

“As a team, everyone works for their teammate; in the Europa League final, it was clearly seen, the level we showed. But this is a different season.”

With his impressive performances attracting the attention of top European clubs, Lookman remains focused on helping Atalanta achieve historic success this season.