Atalanta Coach Wishes Early Exit for Super Eagles in AFCON 2023

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Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini expressed his desire for Nigeria’s Super Eagles not to advance far in the upcoming AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire.

The tournament coinciding with star forward Ademola Lookman’s early departure to join his national teammates in the United Arab Emirates for pre-tournament training.

Lookman marked his farewell with a goal in Atalanta’s 1-0 victory against Lecce on Saturday, December 30.

His goal in the 58th minute secured Atalanta a 1-0 victory, helping them bounce back to winning form following their 1-0 loss to Bologna on December 23.

He has now scored seven goals in 18 Serie A appearances this season.

“Unfortunately Lookman will fly out tomorrow, but we have Muriel, Scamacca, De Ketelaere, Miranchuk and Toure. It will be an opportunity for them,” Gasperini told DAZN via Football Italia.

“I don’t want to act like I’m wishing Nigeria don’t do well, but naturally we hope Lookman isn’t away for too long. Above all, we hope he doesn’t get injured.”

Lookman has been included in Jose Peseiro’s final 25-man squad for the upcoming AFCON, marking his debut in a major tournament with the Super Eagles.

If Nigeria advances to the semi-finals, Lookman is expected to return to Atalanta in February.

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