'He and I have clashes then make up' - Atalanta coach says Lookman will wear captain's armband

Speaking after his side's 4-0 rout of Juventus in a Serie A clash at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday night, Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini reflected on his relationship with Ademola Lookman and confirmed that the Nigeria international will wear the captain's armband before the end of the season.

Atalanta's Champions League exit brought more than just disappointment to the Bergamo-based club as there was a rift between their star player Lookman and Gasperini following a missed penalty in the second half of the defeat to Club Brugge. 

The Nerazzurri owners have intervened to mediate the dispute between Lookman and Gasperini but barring any surprises, the African Footballer of the Year is set to leave in the summer, with no shortage of suitors and a high asking price.

Gasperini has a history of clashes with his players, having previously had disputes with Papu Gómez, Joakim Mæhle and Timothy Castagne. 

Against Juventus, Atalanta were at their scintillating best as goals from Mateo Retegui, Marten de Roon and Davide Zappacosta gave them a 3-0 lead, before Lookman wrapped up the scoring in the 77th minute.

Gasperini admitted that Lookman’s individualistic style has occasionally led to disagreements, but he also praised the forward’s commitment to Atalanta. 

In quotes relayed by Sos Fanta, he said: "He and I have clashes and then we make up because he is an extraordinary player who sometimes has a bit of individualism. 

"However, I must say that in these years he has attacked the skin of Atalanta and before the end of the championship he will also wear the captain's armband, which is a great gesture. 

"We live 300 days a year together, the important thing is to retrace your steps. With Papu now we are very good friends again, it's part of life."

Gasperini, who has worked closely with the Charlton Athletic academy graduate, believes his commitment to the club will be further solidified with a leadership role.

He added: "This is an example. People can have different visions. Lookman became a fantastic player when he thought more about the team. 

"He often thought on an individual level, he made Atalanta great and Atalanta made him great. I am convinced that in the end he will wear the captain's armband so he will have Atalanta on his skin".

Lookman has been instrumental in Atalanta's attacking setup this season, registering 25 goal involvements (18 goals, 7 assists) in 31 matches across all competitions.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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