Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone has acknowledged Ademola Lookman’s struggles to regain his best form but expressed confidence in the Super Eagles forward’s determination to turn things around ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League clash with Manchester United.
Simeone admitted that the Nigerian has yet to reach the level expected of him but praised his daily efforts to improve.
“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,” the Argentine coach said, according to Spanish newspaper AS.
The Atlético boss urged the 28-year-old to remain confident and continue taking on defenders, even when his attempts do not always succeed.
“He’s a good dribbler, we need him to be, to lose the ball, to keep trying,” Simeone added.
Lookman enjoyed an encouraging start following his arrival from Atalanta, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in 24 appearances across all competitions during the second half of last season.
However, his output has declined this campaign, with the forward managing just one goal in nine appearances.
Simeone noted that fluctuations in performance are part of football, stressing that players cannot remain at their peak throughout an entire season.
“Each player has their own moment. I don’t think any player is always at their best; there are injuries,” he said.
Lookman also featured as a substitute in Atlético’s 2-1 defeat to Liverpool in their Champions League opener, entering the match in the 59th minute.
Atlético will now seek a response against Manchester United, with Lookman hoping to rediscover his attacking rhythm and help the Spanish side secure a vital result.
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