‘Skin issue’ Vector responds to Gasperini’s harsh Lookman criticism

Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini faces backlash for harshly criticizing Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman after his missed Champions League penalty.

After Atalanta’s 3-1 Champions League defeat to Club Brugge on Tuesday night, Gasperini publicly called Lookman “the worst penalty taker he has ever seen.”

Lookman, who was introduced as a substitute when Atalanta was already three goals down, quickly made an impact by scoring to reduce the deficit.

Moments later, he could score again from the penalty spot. However, Club Brugge goalkeeper Simon Mignolet saved his effort, keeping Atalanta at bay.

Manager claims Lookman insisted on taking penalty

Speaking after the game, Gasperini not only criticized Lookman’s penalty-taking ability but also claimed that the Nigerian winger insisted on taking the spot-kick.

According to the manager, Lookman was not the team’s designated penalty taker but still chose to take the shot.

His remarks sparked outrage among fans and football analysts, with many arguing that such harsh criticism was unnecessary and unfair.

Vector calls out Gasperini

Nigerian rapper Vector Tha Viper was among the first to react to Gasperini’s comments. He took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle, suggesting that the criticism had racial undertones.

“I thought I was a victor till Napoli started laughing. Make Lookman look well… This skin issue sha,” he wrote. His statement appeared to compare Lookman’s treatment to that of Victor Osimhen, who faced similar issues at Napoli.

Lookman responds to Gasperini’s claims

Lookman has since responded, clarifying what actually happened. He revealed that, contrary to Gasperini’s claim, he did not force himself to take the penalty. Instead, the designated penalty taker asked him to step up and take the shot.

This directly contradicts Gasperini’s version of events and raises further questions about why the manager chose to blame Lookman publicly.

Backlash against Gasperini’s comments

Gasperini’s remarks have drawn widespread criticism. Many believe that public shaming of a player, especially after a tough loss, is unprofessional and demoralizing. Some analysts argue that a good manager should protect his players rather than undermine them.

Despite the missed penalty, Lookman remains one of Atalanta’s key players. His performances in both domestic and European competitions have been impressive, and many fans continue to back him.

African players and unfair treatment in Europe

This incident has once again brought attention to the treatment of African players in European football. Public criticism, unfair blame, and even racial undertones in comments from managers and fans are recurring issues. Osimhen’s controversy at Napoli, where his own club’s social media account mocked him, is still fresh in memory.

What’s next for Lookman and Atalanta?

With the controversy gaining momentum, Atalanta and Gasperini may face pressure to address the backlash. Whether the manager will clarify or soften his stance remains uncertain.

For now, Lookman remains focused on his performances, while voices like Vector Tha Viper’s ensure that such issues do not go unnoticed.

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