Lookman vs. Gasperini: Atalanta board set for damage control move to avoid Osimhen-Napoli situation

In a bid to quell the growing controversy between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and star forward Ademola Lookman, the management of Serie A side Atalanta BC are taking decisive action to mediate the situation.

Following Gasperini's public criticism of Lookman after their Champions League exit, the Atalanta board is stepping in to address the rift and restore harmony within the team.

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The controversy stems from Gasperini's harsh assessment of Lookman's penalty miss during their Champions League match against Club Brugge.

Gasperini called Lookman "one of the worst penalty takers I've ever seen", a statement that Lookman publicly refuted, expressing his disappointment and feeling of disrespect.

“Being singled out in the manner I have been not only hurts but feels deeply disrespectful," Lookman said.

According to a post on X by Atalanta News via RadioDea, a team will be at the training ground in Bergamo on Thursday for a face-to-face meeting.

Senior Management is expected to attend training in Zingonia to attempt to heal the rift between Gian Piero Gasperini and Ademola Lookman.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also hinted at the intervention, stating on social media that “Atalanta will try to clarify the situation with Gasperini in the next 24h after strong quotes…".

Amid the fallout, Romano has also stated that "Understand plan remains for Lookman to leave Atalanta this summer,” as reported by Pulse Sports.

He further added that a transfer was already planned as a possibility last summer with several clubs keen and that the transfer will now happen this year.

The Atalanta board's intervention highlights the seriousness of the situation and the potential impact on the team's performance.

With Atalanta still in the Serie A title race, the club aims to re-establish a positive atmosphere in the dressing room despite recent setbacks on and off the pitch.

The meeting aims to resolve the issue amicably, with some hoping to avoid a similar situation to what transpired between Napoli and Victor Osimhen.