UCL: Arteta Hails Lookman’s Atalanta Ahead Opening Fixture

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Ademola Lookman and his Atalanta teammates ahead of Thursday’s (today) UEFA Champions League meeting.

The Gunners will be up against Gian Piero Gasperini’s side at the Gewiss Stadium, Bergamo.

Lookman was the star of the show when Atalanta won the UEFA Europa League last season.

Much will be expected from the Nigeria international in the encounter.

Asked about Atalanta’s playing style, Arteta was effusive in his praise of the Italian team.

He told reporters: “The club has an amazing story and what (Gian Piero) Gasperini has done is amazing. I have a big admiration for what he has done in his career, not only for Atalanta but for other clubs. He’s a very important figure and what they achieved last season was incredible and we’ll see how tomorrow goes!”

The Spaniard also reserved huge praise for manager Gasperini.

“It’s very difficult to play against them! They have a particular playing style which you see week-in, week-out and it’s very challenging for opponents coming up against them. In the last two seasons, the Premier League has changed a lot, you’ve got a lot of squads that are doing similar things to them and we need to be prepared ahead of tomorrow.”