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The feud between Ademola Lookman and Gian Piero Gasperini does not look to be ending any time soon

The tension between Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini and Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman refuses to die down, as the Italian coach once again took a subtle dig at his player following their ongoing public fallout.

His remarks seemed to be a veiled reminder that while Lookman has been a key figure for Atalanta, the club has also played a huge role in shaping his career.

Gasperini reignites feud with fresh comments

Lookman and Gasperini’s relationship has remained strained ever since the Atalanta boss publicly criticised the Super Eagles star for his missed penalty in their Champions League play-off defeat to Club Brugge.

The forward, who felt the remarks were “disrespectful,” has since been at odds with his coach, with both parties linked to a move aay from the club this season.

Despite Atalanta’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Empoli, the bad blood between the pair was evident when Lookman refused to shake Gasperini’s hand after being substituted.

Speaking after the match, the Atalanta manager took another swipe at the Nigerian, saying, “Lookman has always scored a lot of goals, at least since he joined Atalanta.

“He has become an extraordinary player, especially when he puts himself at the disposal of the team.”

Stats behind Gasperini’s latest claims

Lookman has undoubtedly found his best form since joining Atalanta, contributing 49 goals and 23 assists in 107 appearances.

His record in Serie A—36 goals in 82 games—is significantly better than his output in the Premier League, where he scored just 11 goals in 96 matches across spells with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City.

Before moving to Italy, the Nigerian forward struggled to live up to his potential, bouncing between clubs such as Charlton Athletic, RB Leipzig, and Everton.

However, his performances under Gasperini have turned him into one of Atalanta’s most reliable attacking threats.

Despite the ongoing feud, Lookman remains focused on delivering for Atalanta, and with his current form, the club may have no choice but to rely on him if they are to achieve their ambitions this season.