Atalanta's head coach, Gian Piero Gasperini, has clarified that his recent remarks about Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman were not intended to offend. Following Atalanta's 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge in the Champions League, which led to their 5-2 aggregate exit, Gasperini criticized Lookman for taking and missing a penalty, stating he was "one of the worst penalty takers" he'd ever seen. 

Lookman, who had scored earlier in the match, expressed that Gasperini's comments were deeply hurtful and disrespectful, especially given his commitment to the team. 

In a subsequent press conference, Gasperini addressed the situation, stating, "He felt offended, but I had no intention of offending anyone." 

He emphasized his respect for Lookman and the team's unity, aiming to move past the incident as Atalanta prepares for their upcoming Serie A match against Empoli.