'Time to move on' - 2013 Afcon winner urges Lookman and Osimhen to leave Serie A clubs

Former Nigeria international and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner Ogenyi Onazi has urged both Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen to consider leaving their respective Serie A clubs in light of recent controversies. 

Onazi's comments come after Atalanta's head coach Gian Piero Gasperini publicly criticized Lookman following a missed penalty during a crucial UEFA Champions League playoff against Club Brugge. 

Gasperini labeled Lookman as one of the worst penalty takers he had ever seen, prompting backlash from fans and pundits alike.

In an interview with Sportsboom.com, Onazi expressed his disappointment over Gasperini's remarks, calling them disrespectful to a young player who has consistently contributed to Atalanta.

 "It is incredibly disappointing to hear such remarks from an experienced coach about one of his best players," Onazi stated. 

"Disrespecting a young player who has given so much to the team is unacceptable. This player isn’t just any talent—he’s the current African Player of the Year and consistently gives his all for Atalanta. 

"Despite coming off an injury, he returned and helped put his team back into the game. After all, anyone—even the very best—can miss a penalty."

Onazi highlighted Lookman's significant contributions to Atalanta, emphasizing that the club took a chance on him during a challenging phase in his career. 

"Atalanta took a chance on him during a difficult phase in his career, and he has since proven his worth," Onazi said. 

"If he had not performed, they would likely have let him go. In my opinion, it may be time for him to move on, find a new club, and enjoy his football elsewhere."

Onazi also reflected on his previous advice to Osimhen, who recently renewed his contract with Napoli despite Onazi's suggestion that he should leave while the applause was still ringing.

 "I told him that he had accomplished the unthinkable for Napoli and the city, and that he should leave while the ovation was still strong," Onazi explained. 

"He chose to renew his contract instead, and when things went south, he reached out—proving that perhaps my advice had been the better option."

The former Lazio midfielder's comments resonate with the broader conversation regarding player treatment in high-pressure environments like Serie A. 

Onazi’s call for respect between coaches and players is essential for fostering a supportive atmosphere, especially for  talents like Lookman, who have already achieved significant accolades.

Wale Adejumo

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com