Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has apologised to Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman after deploying the Nigerian in an unfamiliar central striking role during the club’s opening two La Liga matches of the 2026/27 season.
Lookman has been forced to operate as a centre-forward because of the absence of Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez, who have both been dealing with injuries. The Nigerian has yet to find the net in either of Atlético’s opening two league fixtures.
Speaking after Atlético’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal, Simeone admitted that Lookman has been asked to perform a role that does not allow him to showcase his best qualities.
“I apologised to Ademola Lookman, first, in the locker room, telling him: ‘I know it’s not your place, you were supposed to help us because right now Alexander Sørloth is injured, Julián Álvarez is recovering very well, and he’s the one helping us.’”
The Argentine tactician praised Lookman’s attitude and commitment despite the positional change.
“I understand, and I know him, that he’s a good guy. He’s putting in a tremendous effort, especially in the team’s work.”
Simeone also acknowledged that the Nigerian is being deprived of the attacking freedom that makes him most effective, particularly his ability to dribble, take on defenders and score goals.
“He’s missing what he enjoys, which is dribbling, scoring goals, and taking on defenders one-on-one. And we’re going to give him that back, obviously, when we have the forwards available to share those spaces on the field that make us better as a team.”
Lookman has endured a slow start since joining Atlético, failing to score against Málaga and Villarreal after being deployed as a centre-forward in both games.
Meanwhile, Álvarez was booed by sections of the Atlético support during the draw with Villarreal amid continued speculation over his future. The Argentina international has reportedly been linked with Arsenal and Barcelona after previously expressing a desire to leave Atlético.
With the transfer window closing on September 1, Simeone will hope to have his attacking options available soon so Lookman can return to a role closer to his preferred position and rediscover his best form.