Ademola Lookman: Simeone sings praise of Nigerian after Atlético Madrid debut

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone took his time to praise new signing from Nigeria Ademola Lookman after their 5-0 victory over Real Betis put the team into the Copa del Rey semi-finals on Thursday.

The Super Eagle kicked off life in Spain with a goal and an assist on his debut for the La Liga side. Lookman, who joined 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.

 

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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.

‘He has different qualities than players we have’

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Simeone was visibly delighted with his latest acquisition. He said: “His (Lookman) characteristics speak for themselves; he’s different from the players we have.

“He’s more of a one-on-one player than a team player, although he has that aspect, but he allows us to play in several positions. He had a great impact.”

He added: “He’s a big guy; he’s 28 years old. He came to help us and hopefully we’ll help him so he can continue to grow. He has different qualities than the players we have and that will make us better.”

Speaking after the match, 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 emphasised 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.”

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 Shines on Debut for Atlético Madrid

From the opening whistle, Ademola Lookman looked completely at ease in Atlético’s attacking setup. Deployed on the flank, the Nigerian forward tormented the Betis defence with his pace, direct running, and confidence in one-on-one situations. Time and again, he drove at defenders, stretching the opposition backline and creating space for his teammates.

His standout moment came when he scored Atlético’s third goal of the evening, calmly finishing off a precise cross from Pablo Barrios. The goal not only showcased Lookman’s sharp movement inside the box but also his composure in front of goal—qualities Simeone values highly in big matches.

Just minutes later, Lookman turned provider. Collecting the ball on the left, he timed his pass perfectly to find Antoine Griezmann, who made no mistake in slotting home Atlético’s fourth goal in the 62nd minute. It was a moment that underlined Lookman’s versatility: not just a scorer, but a creator capable of elevating those around him.

Diego Simeone on Ademola Lookman’s Unique Qualities

Speaking during his post-match press conference, Diego Simeone did not hide his satisfaction with his new signing’s impact. The Argentine tactician highlighted how Ademola Lookman brings a different profile to Atlético’s squad.

“His characteristics speak for themselves; he’s different from the players we have,” Simeone said. “He’s more of a one-on-one player than a team player, although he has that aspect. He allows us to play in several positions. He had a great impact.”

Simeone also pointed out Lookman’s maturity and experience, noting that at 28 years old, the winger arrives ready to contribute immediately rather than needing a long adaptation period.

“He’s a big guy; he’s 28 years old. He came to help us and hopefully we’ll help him so he can continue to grow,” the Atlético coach added. “He has different qualities than the players we have, and that will make us better.”

Ademola Lookman Reacts After Dream Atlético Madrid Start

After the final whistle, Ademola Lookman spoke with visible joy about his debut and the warm reception he received from his new teammates. The Nigerian international emphasised how important the dressing room atmosphere has been in helping him settle quickly.

“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.”

He also explained that the unity within the squad made adapting to a new league and country far 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.”

What Ademola Lookman Brings to Atlético Madrid

Lookman’s debut performance offered a clear glimpse of what he adds to Simeone’s tactical options. His ability to beat defenders, link play, and deliver in decisive moments gives Atlético a new attacking dimension—particularly against teams that defend deep.

Beyond the statistics, his confidence and work rate fit perfectly with Simeone’s demanding philosophy. If this first outing is any indication, Ademola Lookman could quickly become a key figure in Atlético Madrid’s push for silverware this season, both domestically and in Europe.

With the Copa del Rey semi-finals now secured, all eyes will be on Lookman to see if he can maintain this impressive level and continue to make an impact in Spanish football.