CAF Releases Statement Following Gasperini’s Comments on African Player of the Year
- Ademola Lookman was criticised following Atalanta's exit from this season's UEFA Champions League
- Despite scoring in their loss to Club Brugge, Lookman was singled out for blame following his penalty miss
- Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini branded the 27-year-old as the worst penalty-taker he has ever seen
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has thrown their support behind the Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman, who was criticised by Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Following Atalanta's exit from the Champions League, Lookman, who scored in their loss to Club Brugge, was singled out for blame.
Gasperini left the football world furious when he stated that Lookman is the worst penalty-taker he has ever seen.
Source: Getty Images
The 27-year-old took to social media to respond, saying the manager's comments were hurtful and showed some level of disrespect.
CAF backs Ademola Lookman
In an official reaction, CAF took to its official X handle to show a highlight of Lookman's performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The continental body added the caption:
"If you still can't see it just Look, man!"
Recall that the Atalanta star played a key role in Nigeria's quest at the continental showpiece scoring three goals in the process.
Lookman netted a brace against Cameroon in the Round of 16, before scoring the only goal against Angola in the quarter-final.
He was named the 2024 CAF African Footballer of the Year at an awards ceremony in Marrakech, Morocco after a stellar season with Atalanta and the Nigeria national team per ESPN.
Lukman reacts to Gasperini's 'disrespectful' statement
The 27-year-old stated that he was sad to release a statement especially due to the success and unity he has shared with the team.
He lamented that he was unfairly singled out for the team's loss, saying the manager's statements were both hurtful and disrespectful, considering the dedication and hard work he puts in daily.
The reigning African king disclosed that he has faced many difficult moments at the Italian club but has remained silent, in order to prioritise the team’s well-being over personal struggles.
Mutiu Adeppoju criticises Gasperini
Legit.ng earlier reported that Nigerian football legend Mutiu Adepoju criticised Atalanta manager, Gian Piero Gasperini.
The tactician blasted Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Player of the Year, for missing a penalty during the match.
Adepoju voiced his disapproval, pointing out that the Atalanta manager's comments could be demoralising for the young player.
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Source: Legit.ng
