Atalanta faces striker dilemma as Ademola Lookman heads to AFCON, leaving Coach Gasperini concerned
In a challenging turn of events for Serie A side Atalanta, Nigerian striker Ademola Lookman’s participation in the upcoming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has become a cause for concern.
Lookman, a key player for Atalanta, is set to join Nigeria’s campaign in AFCON, presenting a temporary setback for Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini.
The Nigerian forward scored the match-winner for Atalanta vs Leece on Saturday evening to underline his status as the team’s brightest forward this term, in what could be his last game before reporting for Nations Cup duty with the Jose Peseiro tutored Super Eagles.
In his post match interview, Gasperini expressed his worries about Lookman’s departure, emphasizing the striker’s pivotal role in the team’s attacking prowess.
“It worries me that Lookman is leaving for the AFCON. It’s clear that we’re losing an important element in attack,” Gasperini remarked, underscoring the impact of Lookman’s contributions to the team.
Lookman, who has been in impressive form during the current season, has scored seven goals and provided three assists in 18 Serie A appearances.
His absence raises concerns not only in terms of numerical shortage but also regarding the quality and dynamism he brings to the team’s style of play.
Gasperini remains optimistic, stating that Atalanta has sufficient depth in its squad to compensate for Lookman’s temporary departure.
However, the extent of Lookman’s absence will hinge on Nigeria’s performance in AFCON, potentially keeping him away from club duties for up to a month.
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Gasperini has also prayed that Lookman return back to Bergamo without injury in the shortest possible time.
“Unfortunately Lookman will fly out tomorrow, but we have Muriel, Scamacca, De Ketelaere, Miranchuk and Toure. It will be an opportunity for them,” Gasperini was quoted by Football Italia.
“I don’t want to act like I’m wishing Nigeria don’t do well, but naturally we hope Lookman isn’t away for too long. Above all, we hope he doesn’t get injured.”
As Atalanta navigates through this challenging period without Lookman, the team’s adaptability and the ability of other players to step up will be put to the test.
Gasperini and the management will need to devise strategies to maintain the team’s competitive edge in Serie A, ensuring that the absence of Lookman does not compromise their aspirations in the league.
