Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has apologised to Ademola Lookman for playing the Nigerian forward out of his natural position, admitting that the tactical decision has taken away some of the qualities he enjoys most.
Lookman has been deployed as a central striker amid Atlético’s shortage of attacking options, with Alexander Sørloth injured and Julián Álvarez still working his way back to full fitness. Simeone acknowledged that the role does not suit the former Atalanta star.
“I have to apologise to Lookman; I know that’s not his position,” Simeone said after Atlético’s latest match. “We needed him to help us there because Sørloth is injured and Julián is working his way back to his best form.”
The Argentine coach praised Lookman’s attitude but admitted that the change in position has restricted the Nigerian’s biggest strengths, particularly his ability to attack defenders.
“He’s a great kid and he’s working hard, but he was missing the things he enjoys most: dribbling, scoring goals, taking players on one-on-one,” Simeone added.
Lookman made a strong impact after joining Atlético, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in 24 appearances during his first spell at the club. However, Simeone’s decision to use him through the middle has raised questions over whether Atlético are getting the best out of one of their most dangerous attacking players.
The manager insists the situation is temporary and expects Lookman to return to a role that allows him to express his attacking instincts once Atlético’s regular forwards are available.
“We’ll get him back to doing those things once we have our attacking players available again,” Simeone said.
