Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has challenged Ademola Lookman to rediscover his best form ahead of the club’s UEFA Champions League meeting with Manchester United, Bold Sports reports.
The Nigerian forward has scored once in nine appearances across all competitions this season. He previously recorded nine goals and four assists in 24 appearances during the second half of last season. His recent struggles have raised questions about his attacking contribution.
Simeone explains Lookman’s recent struggles
Lookman impressed after joining Atlético Madrid from Atalanta last season. However, the 28-year-old has found it difficult to reproduce those performances in the current campaign.
Simeone addressed the forward’s situation during his pre-match press conference. The Argentine manager acknowledged Lookman’s difficulties but highlighted his commitment to improving.
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“Each player has their own moment. I don’t think any player is always at their best; there are injuries.
“Lookman isn’t playing the way he wants to be and we want to see him, but he works every day trying to get back to that form.
“He’s a good dribbler, we need him to be, to lose the ball, to keep trying.”
The Atlético boss believes Lookman must continue taking on defenders. Although dribbling attempts sometimes lead to possession losses, Simeone wants the Nigerian to maintain his attacking ambition.
Champions League offers Lookman another opportunity
Atlético Madrid will host Manchester United on Tuesday, October 13, at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
The Spanish side need a positive result after losing their Champions League opener against Liverpool. They suffered a 2-1 defeat at Anfield, with Lookman featuring as a substitute.
Simeone will hope the upcoming fixture provides an opportunity for his forward to regain confidence. Lookman’s ability to beat defenders and create attacking opportunities could prove valuable against the English visitors.
However, the Nigerian must improve his contribution in the final third. His single goal this season highlights the difference between his current output and last season’s performances.
Atlético Madrid seek a stronger attacking contribution
Lookman’s early impact at Atlético Madrid demonstrated his potential to become an important attacking option. His nine goals and four assists last season offered evidence of that contribution.
Now, Simeone wants the forward to rediscover those qualities through consistent effort and greater attacking confidence.
The Manchester United fixture presents another opportunity for Lookman to respond. A strong performance could help him rebuild momentum and strengthen his position in Atlético Madrid’s attacking plans.
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