Lookman responds to Gasperini's harsh penalty criticism after Champions League exit

Ademola Lookman faced harsh criticism from Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini after missing a crucial penalty in the team's 5-2 aggregate defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League. Gasperini labeled Lookman 'one of the worst penalty takers I've ever seen' and expressed disappointment that he took the penalty instead of designated players Mateo Retegui or Charles De Ketelaere. In response, Lookman defended himself, stating he was instructed to take the penalty and found Gasperini's public comments disrespectful, especially given his commitment to the team. Despite scoring shortly after coming on, Lookman's missed penalty ended any hopes of an unlikely comeback. He emphasized the pain of being singled out publicly, particularly after his contributions to the team. Atalanta's exit marks another disappointing chapter in their European campaign, although they remain competitive in Serie A.