Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has highlighted the qualities of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated La Liga clash with Real Madrid at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.
Lookman joined the Rojiblancos in the winter transfer market, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract with the La Liga giants to end his stint with Atalanta in Italy.
The winger is known for his explosive pace and direct approach, often running at defenders and using his skill and close control to create problems.
He impressed in the second half of last season, where he registered thirteen goal involvements (9 goals, 4 assists) in 24 appearances across all competitions.
However, the former African Footballer of the Year has endured a slow start to the 2026-27 season, scoring just one goal in seven appearances.
Simeone stressed that Lookman remains an important part of his plans, regardless of how long he features against Real Madrid.
Speaking at Saturday's press conference, the Argentine tactician said, via Marca: "He's a player with a profile we don't often have. He's the most unpredictable in one-on-one situations on the edge of the box.
"We need him whether he plays 60, 70, or however many minutes. He's been very good for us since he arrived, and although his start to the season hasn't been what he'd like, we still need him."
Lookman has enjoyed facing Real Madrid, finding the net twice in three previous appearances against Los Blancos.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Discussions (0)