Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini has expressed frustration over the imminent departure of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, who is set to join the Super Eagles for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

According to Sky Italia and Football Italia, Gasperini admitted that Lookman’s absence will create a significant gap in Atalanta’s attack, especially given the winger’s current blistering form in the Serie A.
“He’s one of our most important players right now,” the coach reportedly said. “Losing him during this crucial stage of the season will be very difficult for us.”

BBC Sport also noted that Lookman has been a game-changer for Atalanta, delivering key goals and assists that have kept the club firmly in the European race. His departure for AFCON — which runs during a tight club schedule — has left Gasperini worried about squad depth and overall team balance.

Meanwhile, The Guardian UK highlighted that Lookman’s international duty is non-negotiable, as the Super Eagles are counting on the forward to replicate his electrifying AFCON 2023 performance, where he scored decisive goals that powered Nigeria to the final.

Italian pundits speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport say Atalanta fans must brace for a challenging period, as replacing Lookman’s creativity, pace, and finishing will be “almost impossible.”

As AFCON draws closer, Atalanta will now have to strategize around the temporary loss of one of their brightest stars — a reality Gasperini admits he is “not happy but must accept.”