I feel bad for the guy — Ex-Atalanta boss Gasperini speaks on Lookman transfer saga

Former Atalanta manager and current Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini has spoken publicly for the first time about Ademola Lookman’s transfer dispute.

Gasperini offered words of sympathy while reflecting on their time together, as the Nigerian winger’s future is being clouded by a public fallout with his former club.

Speaking at his first press conference as Roma manager, Gasperini addressed the tension surrounding Lookman’s situation with a tone that blended nostalgia and disappointment.

“The situation with Lookman? I’m sorry. We shared so many great moments together,” he said, before lamenting how recent events risk overshadowing the forward’s achievements in Bergamo.

Gasperini worked closely with Lookman during one of Atalanta’s most exciting attacking eras, where the winger’s pace, skill, and creativity helped the club win the Europa League and enhance their reputation as Serie A’s surprise package.

The coach’s remarks suggest a genuine personal connection, despite their public falling out, but also frustration that their successful collaboration might now be reduced in public memory to a transfer standoff.

Lookman has made his intentions clear by submitting a formal transfer request, a move that he further explained in an open letter urging Atalanta to let him leave.

Inter Milan have made repeated attempts to secure his signature, but Atalanta remain adamant about not selling to a direct Serie A rival at a reduced price.

The standoff has put both player and club in an awkward position, with Lookman refusing to train while his future hangs in the balance.

For the 27-year-old, the saga cannot end soon enough, and Gasperini clearly shares the same sentiment, hoping the current problems will not make Atalanta faithful remember Lookman only for the wrong reasons.