Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly considering stepping down from his position following a heated public dispute with star forward Ademola Lookman.
The tension between the two, intensified by Atalanta’s Champions League elimination, has cast doubt on their futures in Bergamo.
This fallout has left the club in a precarious position, with Lookman likely to leave in the summer, and both Napoli and Juventus reportedly monitoring his situation.
Just over a year after Gasperini and Lookman helped Atalanta secure their first major European trophy with a Europa League victory, both seem poised to leave the club under contentious circumstances.
The breaking point came after Atalanta’s painful Champions League exit to Club Brugge, where Lookman’s missed penalty proved costly.
Gasperini sharply criticized the Nigerian winger in the aftermath, calling him “one of the worst penalty takers” he had ever seen. Lookman responded the following day, accusing Gasperini of being “disrespectful.”
Gasperini’s outburst has drawn criticism from several quarters, including Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero and former Nigerian international Duke Udi, who both condemned the veteran coach’s harsh comments.
The backlash has reportedly taken its toll on Gasperini, and as stated by journalist Gerardo Fasano of Ruleta Sport via Tutto Atalanta, the controversy nearly led him to resign on February 19.
It was only after intervention from Atalanta’s management, led by the Percassi family, that Gasperini agreed to stay until the season’s end.
Atalanta’s hierarchy quickly stepped in to mediate, urging Gasperini to remain in charge for the remainder of the campaign, with the focus on securing a top-four Serie A finish before any decisions are made in June.
Despite their European disappointment, Atalanta remains in contention for a Champions League spot.
READ ALSO : Lookman, Osimhen battle for King of the Pitch Crown
However, internal tensions may disrupt the team’s push for a strong finish, but Gasperini has agreed to see out the season.
Amid the crisis, Atalanta is reportedly preparing for life after Gasperini. Reports suggest the club has reached out to former Napoli and Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri as a potential successor.
Sarri, who is currently without a club after leaving Lazio, is known for his attacking style, which could align well with Atalanta’s philosophy under Gasperini.
His potential arrival would be a major managerial coup for the Bergamo-based side.
As for Lookman’s future, Napoli and Juventus are said to be monitoring his situation closely.
The Nigerian forward came close to joining PSG in August but could remain in Italy, with both Serie A giants reportedly in the race for his signature.
Atalanta reportedly valued Lookman at €60 million in the last transfer window, and a similar fee could be requested this summer, with other clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool also showing interest.
Reported by Soccernet.ng.
