Italian football icon Roberto Donadoni has backed Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman as a more consistent and decisive forward than AC Milan’s Rafael Leão ahead of their crucial Serie A showdown at San Siro.
Speaking to Eco di Bergamo, Donadoni praised Lookman’s influence and reliability this season, saying:
“Both strikers can decide the match, but if I had to choose, I’d bet on Lookman.
He’s been more consistent and fundamental for Gasperini, unlike Leão who’s struggled with form.”
The stats echo his sentiment. While Leão valued at €75 million has seven goals and eight assists in 30 league appearances, Lookman has delivered 13 goals and five assists in just 26 matches, despite battling injuries and a public fallout with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.
Lookman won the CAF best player for 2024. Photo Credit: X
Lookman’s form has been decisive beyond domestic play. The Nigerian etched his name into history with a stunning hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, sealing Atalanta’s first-ever European title.
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As the Serie A season nears its climax, both clubs are chasing European football. Milan sit ninth with 51 points, while third-placed Atalanta are closing in on a Champions League berth with 61 points.
Their last meeting ended 2–1 in Atalanta’s favor, with Lookman on the scoresheet.
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Now, as the two sides prepare for another showdown, the debate over Serie A’s standout winger may have already been settled by a legend who knows the role better than most.
