Lookman silent on Live TV: Atalanta's two-goal hero refuses to answer question about Gasperini

Ademola Lookman played a starring role in Atalanta’s emphatic 5-0 win over Empoli, scoring twice in a commanding display. 

However, the Nigerian forward made headlines after the match by refusing to answer a question about his recent disagreement with head coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

The tension between Lookman and Gasperini stemmed from a Champions League incident, where the coach criticized the player over a missed penalty. 

Gasperini’s remarks prompted a social media response from Lookman, and the issue quickly became a talking point in the club’s camp.

After his standout performance against Empoli, it was inevitable that the matter would resurface. 

During a live TV interview, Lookman was asked whether the exchange with Gasperini had been resolved. 

Initially, he seemed unsure of what had been said and turned to teammate Davide Zappacosta for clarification. "He spoke quickly, what did he say?" Lookman asked, according to Italian sports daily Corriere dello Sport.

When Sky Sport Italia journalist Massimiliano Nebuloni repeated the question—"Has the exchange with Gasperini been resolved and is it behind us?"—Lookman visibly showed his frustration. 

Instead of responding, he simply walked away from the microphone with an annoyed look. Nebuloni attempted once more, asking, "Nothing to say?" Lookman then gave a brief but firm reply: "Finish (finished)."

Despite a collective mediation session held earlier this week at the Borlotti Sports Centre in the presence of Atalanta president Antonio Percassi, it appears the tension has not fully subsided. 

The club had hoped to put the matter to rest, but Lookman’s reaction suggests that the issue remains unresolved.

Meanwhile, Juventus is reportedly monitoring the situation, possibly looking to take advantage of any rift between Lookman and Gasperini.

Wale Adejumo

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