Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has thrown his support behind Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman, insisting he remains an important player despite his difficult start to the new season, Footynaija.com reports.
The Argentine tactician made the remarks ahead of Atletico’s UEFA Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich, addressing concerns over the Nigerian’s recent performances.
Lookman enjoyed an impressive start to life in Madrid following his arrival from Atalanta in February, quickly becoming an influential figure in Atletico’s attack during the second half of last season.
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However, the 28-year-old has struggled to replicate that impact this campaign, with his goal contributions and overall influence in the final third falling below expectations.
Simeone acknowledged that the forward has not enjoyed the start he would have wanted but urged him to remain patient, drawing comparisons with other Atletico players who have overcome difficult periods.
“I think his season didn’t start the way he would have liked, but Julián also went through a difficult time last year and then came out on top, and Griezmann, remember, when he wasn’t scoring goals, he came back. This is work, this is believing in what you do,” Simeone said, per Futbol Fantasy.
“We believe, as I’ve been saying in almost every press conference about Lookman, in the importance he has for us, because he’s one of the players who has the most one-on-one duels in the final third, in the closing stages, where, obviously, a goal can come. And I have a lot of faith in him.”
Lookman recorded four goals in 12 La Liga appearances after joining Atletico last season, while also contributing two goals and two assists in the Champions League.
The Nigerian has managed one league goal so far this campaign, but Simeone will hope his backing provides the encouragement needed for the forward to rediscover his best form as Atletico prepare for a crucial European test against Bayern.
