Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman could barely hide his excitement after sealing a big move from Atlanta to Atletico Madrid late in the January transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
Lookman had angled for an exit from Bergamo last summer, with the 28-year-old winger pulling all the stops in order to force a move. However, nothing materialized that time as Atalanta blocked every possible route of a potential departure.
After enduring some backlash for openly trying to force his exit, facing banishment from the squad and only getting re-integrated mid-way into the first half of the ongoing season, the Nigeria international has finally found a new home.
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Atletico Madrid, who were one of Lookman’s many willing suitors last summer, came calling right at the very end of the January transfer window and after intense negotiations the Spanish giants managed to strike a deal with Atalanta.
Speaking during his first interview as an Atleti player, the former African Player of the Year expressed delight at making the switch from Bergamo to Madrid while relishing the challenges that lay ahead.
“It’s special to be here, it’s an amazing club. It’s a blessing to be here, like I said, I’m happy to be here,” Lookman told the club’s official website.
“I have played in three of the top leagues before. I’m coming to another top league, to a big country also. A new language is a new challenge for me as well but I’m excited about it , and looking forward to it.
“I like to learn, I like to grow and be better. This is what I’m looking forward to doing. To join the group, amazing guys, amazing footballers, also to help as much as I can.
“Also, I want to be the best I can be every single day. I want to improve, and get better because I think I can improve and get better. It’s a new challenge for me, so that brings a sense of excitement.”
Lookman may likely get a chance to introduce himself to Spanish football on Thursday night when Atletico Madrid rock up to the Estadio la Cartuja de Sevilla for their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash against Real Betis.
