Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has addressed the absence of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, who suffered a knee injury in training and will miss the club’s crucial Champions League clash against Barcelona on Wednesday.

Lookman, a key figure in Atalanta’s attack this season, has been ruled out after injuring the lateral joint in his right knee. While the club has yet to confirm how long he will be sidelined, Italian reports suggest the 27-year-old could be out for up to a month.

Speaking to Atalanta media, Gasperini acknowledged the impact of Lookman’s absence but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt.

“Clearly, Lookman’s absence tomorrow will be a pity both for us and for him as well,” Gasperini said. “But we are not going to play with 10 men.

These are top-tier games, and whenever you play in these kinds of matches, regardless of the outcome, they always give you something valuable and teach you lessons for the road ahead.”

Lookman’s injury comes at a critical time for Atalanta, who are fighting to secure an automatic spot in the Champions League last 16.

The team will need to overcome Barcelona at Camp Nou without one of their most consistent performers.

The Nigerian forward had been instrumental in Atalanta’s campaign this season, contributing significantly to their attacking play. His absence, if prolonged, will not only affect Atalanta’s European aspirations but could also impact their domestic campaign.

Lookman will now undergo further tests to determine the severity of his injury and begin treatment.