Gasperini Criticises VAR Decisions And Player Absences Before Brugge Rematch

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Atalanta's manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, expressed his frustration following a late penalty decision in their Champions League play-off against Club Brugge. The match seemed destined for a draw after Mario Pasalic equalised Ferran Jutgla's early goal. However, in stoppage time, Brugge secured a penalty when Gustaf Nilsson was fouled by Isak Hien. Nilsson converted the penalty, resulting in Atalanta's first European away defeat in 15 matches.

Gasperini also criticised the use of VAR after a 1-1 draw with Torino in Serie A earlier this month. The Italian league has suggested allowing managers to challenge VAR decisions, but Gasperini opposes this idea. "I am against this solution because it would slow down the game even more, which is already very slow by virtue of the many whistles that are blown," he told Sky Sports.

The manager believes that increasing the number of challenges could lead to more controversy. He stated, "There are four referees, three at VAR and that seems like a lot to me." Gasperini emphasised the need to combat simulations as they harm football and stressed that technology should provide clear answers and take responsibility for decisions.

Atalanta's recent 0-0 draw with Cagliari highlighted their attacking struggles. Despite dominating possession, they managed only nine shots with two on target, resulting in an expected goals (xG) total of just 0.44. This lack of firepower has been exacerbated by injuries to key players like Ademola Lookman, Gianluca Scamacca, and Daniel Maldini.

Lookman has been particularly missed due to his impressive form this season, scoring 14 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions. He has netted four times in the Champions League but has been sidelined for six games with a knee injury. Gasperini remains hopeful about Lookman's return for the upcoming match against Brugge.

Hopeful Return of Key Player

"We happened to have Lookman out in this period, which coincided with fewer goals, and we lacked something in the attacking phase," Gasperini said regarding Lookman's absence. He added that Lookman seems to have recovered and plans to include him on the bench for potential extra time during Tuesday's game.

Gasperini concluded by stressing the importance of having Lookman fit and ready for action as Atalanta aims to overturn their deficit against Brugge. His return could be crucial for Atalanta's hopes of advancing further in the competition.