Former Atalanta and Genoa coach Cesare Prandelli has drawn a striking comparison between Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman and Italian football legend Antonio Di Natale, Soccernet.ng reports.
Lookman, who joined Atalanta in 2022, has been in outstanding form since his arrival, earning the club’s Player of the Season award in his debut campaign.
His influence was pivotal last season, as he led Atalanta to their first-ever continental title with a historic Europa League triumph.
Lookman’s stellar performances have positioned him as a leading contender for the CAF Player of the Year award, with the Nigerian international also receiving a nomination for the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
His latest achievement came this week, scoring his first UEFA Champions League goal in a commanding 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk.
Prandelli sees shades of Di Natale in Lookman’s game, praising the Nigerian’s versatility, tactical intelligence, and lethal finishing.
“Lookman reminds me of Di Natale, if we really look for a comparison,” Prandelli stated as per L’Interista.
He also commended Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini for refining Lookman’s game.
“One thing is certain: he had never scored so many goals, Gasperini completed him,” Prandelli said.
“He has stamina, devastating counterattacks on 30-40 meters and always heads for the goal: his dribbles are never an end in themselves, but to attack the area.”
Lookman’s development has been evident, with the 26-year-old recording double figures in league goals for the first time in his career.
Last season, he finished with 17 goals and 10 assists, and he has continued to impress this campaign with three goals and two assists in six appearances.
Lookman’s overall tally at Atalanta now stands at an impressive 35 goals and 20 assists in 84 appearances.