The manager of Atalanta, Gian Piero Gasperini, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the departure of winger Ademola Lookman for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Lookman secured a spot in Nigeria’s 25-man squad for the prestigious soccer competition, as announced by head coach Jose Peseiro on Friday.

This marks Lookman’s debut appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations, and if Nigeria progresses to the final, Gasperini anticipates the player’s absence for approximately a month. 

Gasperini acknowledged the impact of Lookman’s departure on Atalanta’s attacking prowess but assured that he has a capable replacement for the talented winger.

Expressing his concern, Gasperini stated, “It worries me that Lookman is leaving for the AFCON, yes, both for the numbers and the quality of the matches played. It is clear that we are losing an important element in attack, but we have a certain number of players to be able to make up for it.”

Lookman, the 26-year-old former Leicester City star, has been a key contributor to Atalanta’s campaign, tallying six goals and three assists in 17 league appearances this season.