Ademola Lookman’s absence has severely impacted Atalanta’s form
Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed his frustration over the club’s recent struggles, attributing them to the absence of key attacking players such as Ademola Lookman.
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The Bergamo side was held to a goalless draw against Cagliari on Saturday, missing a chance to close the gap on Serie A leaders Napoli.
Gasperini bemoans lack of strikers hurting Atalanta
Atalanta’s failure to break down a mid-table Cagliari team laid bare their attacking struggles, with Gasperini admitting that injuries have left his squad short of firepower.
Gasperini, Atalanta manager, seems to have the perfect plan to handle Lookman’s absence. || Imago
“We could have taken all three points today, but we are currently dealing with a numerical shortage,” Gasperini told DAZN.
The absence of Lookman, as well as Gianluca Scamacca, and midfielder Daniel Maldini, has put extra pressure on Atalanta’s remaining attacking options, making it harder for them to secure wins.
Ademola Lookman in action for Atalanta || Imago
“We are suffering tremendously from the absence of strikers, but those who alternate in these situations are extraordinary; everyone adapts.
“It’s become harder for us to secure wins, especially at home, despite dominating large parts of the game, and that’s how we ended up with this result,” Gasperini added.
Gasperini desperate for goals to overturn Champions League deficit
Despite dominating possession and creating opportunities, Atalanta failed to convert their chances, leaving them third in Serie A with 51 points—five behind Napoli and three behind Inter Milan.
Gian Piero Gasperini will want to have Lookman back as soon as possible.
Looking ahead, Gasperini turned his attention to Atalanta’s crucial Champions League clash against Club Brugge on Tuesday.
The Italian side lost the first leg 2-1, conceding a late penalty, which has made qualification for the next round more complicated.
Gian Piero Gasperini says the Europa League win has made Atalanta solid and confident.
“We value this match a lot, especially after how the first leg ended. Brugge have both technical and athletic strength, and we need to score goals,” Gasperini noted.
With Atalanta now needing a strong attacking display to overturn their deficit, the return of injured forwards could be crucial. However, Gasperini admitted that his team faces an uphill battle.
As Atalanta push for both Serie A success and Champions League progression, their ability to cope without Lookman, Scamacca, and Maldini will be decisive in the coming weeks.
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