Lookman attributes success at Atalanta to Gasperini’s attacking play

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has credited Gian Pero Gasperini’s attacking philosophy for his resurgence at Serie A club Atalanta.

Lookman’s move from RB Leipzig to Atalanta last season, valued at €9.2 million, has proved a worthwhile investment. The Nigerian attacker has thrived at the Bergamo-based club, exceeding expectations.

In the previous Serie A season, Lookman tallied 13 goals and eight assists in 31 appearances, surpassing Rasmus Hojlund’s fee to Manchester United. His consistency at Atalanta represents a significant milestone in his career.

This season, the 26-year-old has continued his impressive form, contributing eight goals and four assists in 24 games. Lookman’s success, he reveals, is closely tied to Gasperini’s football ideology.

Despite nearly a decade since his debut for Charlton Athletic, Lookman’s journey across five clubs in three European leagues has equipped him with valuable experience. Remarkably, at 26, he seems to be hitting his peak as a footballer.

Reflecting on his time at Atalanta, The Super Eagles winger expressed his gratitude for the positive style of play fostered by Gasperini. The coach’s emphasis on attacking football helped simplify Lookman’s approach to the game.

“Over the years, Atalanta have been known for playing attacking football, so for me to come into this positive style of play is great for me as an attacker,” Lookman said as quoted by The Athletic.

“Gasperini is very big on playing forward and creating many opportunities to score goals. For me, he has made my football much simpler in how I think about it.”

With Atalanta currently positioned eighth in Serie A, Lookman aims to play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of a European spot as they enter the final stretch of the campaign, sitting eight points behind fourth-placed Bologna with a game in hand.