Ex-Super Eagles LB reveals why Lookman is thriving at Atletico after Atalanta exit

Ademola Lookman. Copyright: xAlbertoxGardinxIMAGO

Former Super Eagles left-back Ifeanyi Udeze has said he is not surprised by how quickly Ademola Lookman has settled into life at Atlético Madrid, Soccernet.ng reports.

Udeze insists the Nigeria international winger’s strong start in the Spanish capital owes much to the support system around him.

Lookman arrived in Spain during the January transfer window after leaving Atalanta in a deal worth around €40 million, and he has wasted little time making an impression in Diego Simeone’s side. His debut goal against Real Betis, which also marked his 100th career strike, set the tone for what has become a standout spell in Madrid.

Since then, the former Everton ace has grown into a key attacking figure, combining sharp finishing with an increasing understanding of Atlético’s demanding tactical approach. He has scored seven goals and provided four assists in just 18 appearances, including two in the UEFA Champions League. One of those strikes proved decisive as Atlético knocked out Barcelona in the quarter-finals.

His influence has not been limited to European nights. In the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad, Lookman scored a vital equaliser, becoming only the second Nigerian after Finidi George to find the net in the showpiece match.

Speaking to Brila FM via CompleteSports, Udeze pointed to the environment within the squad as a major factor behind Lookman’s seamless transition.

“I am not surprised Ademola Lookman settled so quickly at Atletico Madrid after he joined the team in the January transfer window.

“Again, we have to give it to the Atletico Madrid players who accepted him and made him feel at home at the club.

“For me, I am generally happy with the performance of Lookman, and I wish him all the best.”

Soccer Lookman and Atletico: Chemistry and tactical growth

Beyond the numbers, Lookman’s rapid integration has been driven by strong relationships within the dressing room.

He has struck up a particularly effective understanding with Julián Álvarez, with the pair combining well in decisive moments, including the Champions League tie against Barcelona.

He has also built a close bond with Antoine Griezmann, a player he has openly admired. With Griezmann expected to depart at the end of the season, there is already a growing sense that Lookman could inherit a central creative role in Atlético’s attack.

Simeone, known for demanding defensive discipline from his forwards, has praised the Nigerian’s willingness to adapt. Lookman’s work rate off the ball and his ‘courageous’ style have stood out, suggesting there is still more to come as he refines his understanding of the system.

There has been a minor setback, with Lookman currently recovering from an adductor injury sustained in the cup final. However, the issue is not considered serious, and he is following an individual training programme in a bid to be fit for Atlético’s upcoming Champions League semi-final against Arsenal.

Imhonlamhen

Imhonlamhen is a football writer and editor at Soccernet.ng with over six years’ experience shaping its editorial voice. A lifelong Arsenal and Super Eagles fan, he combines engineering precision with training in journalism and digital media. He has covered four AFCONs and two Women’s AFCON tournaments, specialising in Super Eagles history and tracking Nigerian players worldwide, while keeping a close eye on the NPFL and emerging homegrown talents.