Lookman on ‘special’ Ballon d’Or and Retegui still fuming over Celtic | OneFootball

Mateo Retegui is still smarting over the 0-0 draw with Celtic, even after crushing Verona 6-1, while Ademola Lookman admits going to the Ballon d’Or ceremony is a ‘special moment.’

It was truly one-way traffic in Bergamo, as La Dea surged into a 5-0 lead by the 34th minute and eventually won the match 6-1 with Lookman and Retegui braces, plus Marten de Roon and Charles De Ketelaere on target.

While they are yet to concede in three Champions League games, they still couldn’t keep a clean sheet in Serie A, as Amin Sarr hit a scorcher into the top corner.

Retegui consolidated his Capocannoniere status in Serie A, as this double took him up to 10 goals in just nine games.

However, he cannot help but still be frustrated over Wednesday’s disappointing 0-0 draw with Celtic, despite having many opportunities.

“We are very happy, as it was a great performance against a tough team. I am sorry we wasted so many chances against Celtic and got so many goals today, but this victory is dedicated to all the fans,” Retegui told Sky Sport Italia.

Considering he only arrived a few days before pre-season began, how has the Italy international managed to make such an immediate impact in Bergamo?

“I think the confidence that everyone has in me, the fans, the staff, my teammates, this all helped me to settle into a team that already had quality and experience. I am really pleased.”

Lookman getting tux ready for Ballon d’Or

epa11685676 Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman celebrates scoring the 4-0 goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Atalanta BC and Hellas Verona, in Bergamo, Italy, 26 October 2024. EPA-EFE/MICHELE MARAVIGLIA

Lookman had the perfect build-up to the imminent Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, where he is the first Atalanta player to ever make the shortlist for the France Football trophy.

His coach Gian Piero Gasperini is also represented, as he is up for the Coach of the Year Award after winning the Europa League.

“Another good performance from the team. First half was very, very good, we scored five goals and everyone was top,” Lookman told Sky Sport Italia.

Not only is he in the Ballon d’Or shortlist, but Lookman is also now the favourite to win the African Player of the Year Award that will be announced in December.

“It’s a massive moment for the club and also for me. A special, special moment. We made history last year, thanks to everyone, we continue to work hard and keep going.”