Former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has credited Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini for playing a pivotal role in Ademola Lookman’s transformation into one of Africa’s finest players.
Lookman has enjoyed an outstanding 2024 for both club and country, standing out as one of Nigeria’s top performers at the Africa Cup of Nations before inspiring Atalanta to Europa League glory with a hat-trick in the final.
Softfootball reports that Peseiro explained exactly what he believes has unlocked the winger’s full potential under Gasperini’s guidance. He said:
I think giving Lookman the freedom to move around has allowed him to show his quality, both in terms of decision making and execution.
Of course the club and Gasperini have provided Lookman with the environment to grow as a player in all aspects.
Following his crowning as Africa’s Best Player at the CAF Awards in Marrakech, Peseiro was emphatic that the honour was thoroughly deserved. He added:
I think Lookman’s victory is deserved given his performances both for Atalanta, his club, and for his country, Nigeria.
