Diego Simeone challenges Ademola Lookman to raise level despite scoring form

Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has called on Ademola Lookman to improve his all-round contribution, despite the winger scoring his first La Liga goal in the club’s 4-2 win over Espanyol.

Lookman, who joined from Atalanta in January, has made an immediate impact in Spain. His strike against Espanyol took his tally to four goals and six goal contributions in six appearances across all competitions.

Praise with a warning

While acknowledging the Nigerian’s strong start, Simeone stressed there is more work to be done.

“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 after the match.

“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,” he added.

Focus shifts to Europe

Attention now turns to the UEFA Champions League, where Atletico host Club Brugge in the second leg of their knockout phase play-off.

The first leg ended 3-3, with Lookman among the scorers in an open contest that leaves the tie finely balanced heading into the return fixture in Madrid.

Simeone expressed confidence that the home support will play a key role.

“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,” he said.