Former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has defended Ademola Lookman, stating that Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini overreacted by labeling the winger the “worst penalty taker” after his miss against Club Brugge.
The incident sparked a public row, with Lookman describing the comments as disrespectful despite Gasperini’s later attempt to clarify his stance.
Okocha argued that the Italian coach was unfair and ignored the player’s immense value to the team. According to Softfootball, the football legend emphasized that many top players miss penalties without facing such harsh scrutiny, questioning why Lookman is being treated differently in this instance.
The Nigerian icon highlighted Lookman’s critical role in Atalanta’s success, suggesting the club would struggle significantly without his contributions. He stated:
I think Gasperini overreacted by calling Lookman the worst penalty taker. He seems to have forgotten the incredible contributions Lookman has made to Atalanta.
Many top players have missed crucial penalties without facing such harsh criticism, so why is Lookman’s case being treated differently? In my opinion, if you take Lookman out of Atalanta, the club could struggle and even risk relegation.
