Diego Simeone has welcomed the immediate impact of Ademola Lookman at Atlético Madrid, while making it clear that the Nigerian forward is still adapting to the demanding tactical culture of the club, Footynaija reports.
Lookman’s growing influence was evident during Atletico’s 4-2 La Liga victory over RCD Espanyol, where the Super Eagles attacker scored his first league goal since completing a January move from Atalanta BC. The strike continued a remarkable opening spell in Spain, with the winger contributing six goal involvements in his first six appearances.
Ademola Lookman has now scored in all competitions played for Atletico Madrid
— MikeThePundit (@Mike_ThePundit) February 21, 2026
Copa del Rey ✅️
Champions league ✅️
La Liga ✅️
A Super Eagles 🔥🇳🇬pic.twitter.com/2HEiINMjPi
Despite the impressive numbers, Simeone stressed that the attacker’s development goes beyond scoring.
“Above all, he contributes goals. In principle, more goals than playmaking. He can improve both his overall play and his defensive work; we need him to adapt to the team’s style of play, and I see him eager and keen to improve,” Simeone said at his post-match press conference.
“Since he arrived, he’s said he wants to improve as a footballer. His goal-scoring instinct isn’t a coincidence, and we need more of him in terms of overall play.”
Lookman’s early scoring record now places him alongside club great Luis Suárez, matching one of Atletico’s strongest attacking beginnings since the 2013-14 campaign.
Attention quickly shifts from domestic success to European ambition as Atletico prepare for a decisive UEFA Champions League clash against Club Brugge KV. The first leg finished 3-3, with Lookman scoring for Atletico while Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika impressed for the Belgian side.
Ademola Lookman since joining Atletico Madrid:
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 21, 2026
🏟 6 games
⚽️ 4 goals
🅰️ 2 assists
He’s already scored in the Champions League, La Liga and Copa del Rey 💫 pic.twitter.com/TgujaqGdkA
Simeone believes home support will be crucial to progression.
“We need to focus our message internally to energize our people. And based on our style of play and energy, I have no doubt that our stadium will be behind us.”
Lookman won the Europa League with Atalanta in 2024 and the Nigeria international will be motivated to achieve continental success with Atlético Madrid.
