Ademola Lookman subbed off by mistake as Atalanta's season unravels in Lazio loss

In a bizarre sequence during the 74th minute, head coach Gian Piero Gasperini reportedly called for the substitution of midfielder Ederson, using his nickname "Ede".

However, the instruction was misheard by the technical staff as "Ade" - an abbreviation commonly used for Lookman - leading to the Nigerian forward being wrongly taken off.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the mistake was only realized once the substitution had already been confirmed on the electronic board, leaving Gasperini frustrated but unable to reverse the decision.

To add to the awkwardness, Ederson was eventually substituted just four minutes later, replaced by Marco Brescianini - but the damage was already done, both tactically and emotionally.

Lookman, who has been one of Atalanta's most consistent attacking threats this season, appeared visibly puzzled and disappointed as he walked off the pitch.

The incident underscores the rising tension and miscommunication plaguing the Bergamo outfit, who have now lost three games in a row and are without a home win since December 22 - a run that has derailed their Champions League qualification hopes.

Signs of unrest weren't limited to Lookman either. Earlier in the match, Mateo Retegui was withdrawn and cut a frustrated figure on the bench, hinting at discontent brewing within the squad.

With pressure mounting on Gasperini and Champions League spots slipping away, Atalanta will need more than just tactical adjustments - they'll need cohesion, clarity, and calm heads, both on and off the pitch. 

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