AFCON 2025
In the wake of Atalanta’s recent UEFA Champions League exit, African football icon, Samuel Eto’o has extended his support to Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman following public criticism from the club’s head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini.
The controversy began after Atalanta’s 3-1 home defeat to Belgian side Club Brugge, which resulted in their elimination from the tournament.
During the match, Lookman missed a crucial penalty, prompting Gasperini to label him as “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen. This harsh assessment led Lookman to express his disappointment, describing the remarks as “disrespectful.”
In response to the unfolding situation, Eto’o, renowned for his illustrious career with clubs like Inter Milan and Barcelona, took to Instagram to encourage Lookman.
He wrote; “My young brother, memory in football lasts 90 minutes, the time of a match, and then it’s on to the next. For us, you are and will always be our champion. Only those who have the courage to take the shot can miss. Thank you for your courage, great champion.”
Eto’o’s message was accompanied by a photo of Lookman celebrating Atalanta’s Europa League victory from the previous season, where the Nigerian’s hat-trick secured a 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the final.
The incident has ignited discussions within the football community, with many rallying behind Lookman and questioning Gasperini’s approach.
As the situation develops, Lookman’s future at Atalanta remains uncertain, especially with reports of top European clubs monitoring the forward’s status.
