Gasperini Exposed! How Atalanta boss's Lookman reaction compares to Retegui's miss against Arsenal

A stark contrast in Gian Piero Gasperini's reactions to penalty misses by Ademola Lookman and Mateo Retegui has ignited controversy, exposing what many perceive as shocking double standards from the Atalanta boss.

The Italian manager has been under fire after Atalanta's Champions League exit, particularly following his scathing remarks directed at Lookman on Tuesday night.

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The contrasting situations involve Lookman's recent penalty miss against Club Brugge and Retegui's miss against Arsenal during the Champions League league phase.

Lookman, who missed the first leg against Club Brugge, returned to give Atalanta hope by scoring just 35 seconds after being subbed on. 

However, he went from hero to zero after failing to convert a penalty that would have made it 3-2 on the night.

In the aftermath, Gasperini unleashed a tirade against Lookman, stating, "Lookman was not supposed to take that penalty; he is one of the worst penalty takers I’ve ever seen.”

This reaction sharply contrasts with Gasperini's response when Retegui missed a crucial penalty against Arsenal in a goalless draw in Bergamo. 

Retegui's penalty, saved by Arsenal's David Raya, would have given Atalanta a 1-0 lead but proved costly as the Europa League winners failed to seal an automatic spot in the knockout phase.

Following the game against Arsenal, Gasperini told Sky Sport: "We had the chance to go 1-0 up, with the penalty and the rebound. It’s a pity because Retegui had a great game.” 

He also praised Retegui, saying, "He (Retegui) played his best game since he's been here, he deserved the goal.”

The vastly different reactions have sparked outrage, with many questioning Gasperini's apparent double standards. While Retegui received praise and sympathy despite his miss, Lookman was publicly lambasted, raising questions about Gasperini's man-management approach. 

It is worth noting that "Mateo Retegui has missed two crucial penalties against Arsenal and Torino" out of four taken for the club while Lookman had a 100% record before last night.

Adding another layer to the controversy, Lookman has defended himself on social media, stating that he was instructed by the penalty designate to take the important kick.