Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has revealed that Ademola Lookman requires rest following his involvement in the team’s recent victory over Venezia.

Lookman, who recently returned from international duty with Nigeria, faced a challenging situation during the break.

The Nigerian squad was held hostage for 18 hours in Libya, a situation that left the players fatigued.

The team returned to Italy on Wednesday, and Lookman managed a brief training session with his teammates ahead of the Venezia match.

Despite his efforts, the Nigeria international struggled to find his best form and was substituted at half-time, with Colombia’s Juan Cuadrado replacing him after 45 minutes.

Explaining his decision, Gasperini said Lookman was exhausted and needed rest.

“He was probably tired, too. Then there are the games and the needs of the team,” Gasperini stated.

Ademola Lookman during the Serie A match between Venezia and Atalanta at Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

“This already happened with Como. We would have risked the same with Venezia today.”

Lookman has made a strong start to the season, contributing two goals and two assists in five Serie A appearances for Atalanta.