Ademola Lookman speaks after Atlético Madrid debut – ‘Very proud, very happy’

Nigeria international Ademola Lookman discussed his feeling after debuting for Atlético Madrid in Spain on Thursday.

The Super Eagle kicked off life in Spain with a goal and an assist on his debut for La Liga side Atlético Madrid in their 5-0 thrashing of Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-finals.

@sportytv Ademola Lookman’s first words after his Atletico Madrid debut on SportyTV 🦅🇳🇬 🗣️ “I’m very happy. Everyone has been great with me. It’s a dream start.” 🗣️ “That happiness makes me wanna work hard and perform for this amazing club.” #lookman #atleti #copadelrey #africansports #sportsontiktok ♬ sonido original – SportyTV

Lookman, who joined Diego Simeone’s side in the January transfer window, found himself in the starting lineup as they traveled to the Estadio Benito Villamarín. The Nigerian forward looked right at home, as the Betis defense had no answer for his pace and quick thinking on the ball.

Lookman scored the third of the evening after finishing off a cross from Pablo Barrios before he turned the provider for fourth in the 62nd minute when he found Antoine Griezmann, who hit the back of the net.

‘They made it easy for me’

“Very proud, very happy for my debut, especially for the performance of the team. The team, everyone in the dressing room welcomed me in a very affectionate way,” said Lookman after the game.

 

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“They made it easy for me. That’s why I’m very happy. I’ll try to be regular in the season. Everyone works hard. There are things that can be improved, but my intention is to continue working to improve, which is the important thing.”

The big-money signing from Atalanta was later substituted for Obed Vargas and shortly after, Atlético Madrid put the final stamp on the game with a fifth goal from Thiago Almada.

Ademola Lookman Makes Instant Impact in Spain

Having joined Diego Simeone’s side during the January transfer window, Ademola Lookman was immediately handed a starting role as Atlético travelled to the Estadio Benito Villamarín.

Despite it being his first competitive outing in Spanish football, Lookman showed no signs of nerves. His pace, movement, and sharp decision-making caused constant problems for the Betis defence, underlining why Atlético moved quickly to secure his signature.

The Nigerian forward’s performance was a clear statement of intent as he seamlessly adapted to Simeone’s high-intensity system.

Ademola Lookman Scores and Assists in Copa del Rey Rout

Ademola Lookman capped a memorable debut by getting directly involved in two goals. He scored Atlético Madrid’s third goal of the evening, arriving perfectly to finish a low cross delivered by Pablo Barrios.

In the second half, Lookman turned provider. In the 62nd minute, he displayed excellent awareness to find Antoine Griezmann, who finished clinically to extend Atlético’s lead.

The performance showcased Lookman’s versatility—his ability to both score and create chances—making him an immediate asset in Atlético’s attacking setup.

Ademola Lookman: “They Made It Easy for Me”

Speaking after the match, Ademola Lookman could not hide his happiness, praising both his teammates and the welcoming atmosphere within the squad.

“Very proud, very happy for my debut, especially for the performance of the team,” Lookman said.
“The team, everyone in the dressing room welcomed me in a very affectionate way.”

The forward emphasized how the support he received made settling in easier than expected.

“They made it easy for me. That’s why I’m very happy. I’ll try to be regular in the season. Everyone works hard. There are things that can be improved, but my intention is to continue working to improve, which is the important thing.”

Ademola Lookman’s Role Under Diego Simeone

For a player making his first appearance, Ademola Lookman showed an impressive understanding of Diego Simeone’s tactical demands. He tracked back when required, pressed aggressively, and maintained positional discipline—traits highly valued by the Atlético manager.