Simeone Backs Lookman Despite Atletico Madrid Form Slump

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has defended Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman amid his difficult start to the season, emphasizing the player's work ethic and attacking ability ahead of the Spanish club's UEFA Champions League meeting with Manchester United. Speaking before the match at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Simeone acknowledged that the 28-year-old has fallen below expectations but expressed confidence in his ability to recover.

Lookman has scored once in nine appearances across all competitions this season, according to reports by PUNCH Sports Extra and Afrik-Foot. His current output contrasts with his strong introduction to Atletico after joining from Atalanta during the winter transfer window last season.

During the second half of the previous campaign, Lookman recorded nine goals and four assists in 24 appearances across all competitions, according to PUNCH Sports Extra. He also helped Atletico reach the Copa del Rey final and the UEFA Champions League semifinals, where the club eventually lost to Arsenal, according to Afrik-Foot.

Simeone acknowledged the gap between Lookman's current performances and the level expected by the coaching staff, while pointing to the forward's continued efforts in training.

"Ademola isn't at the level he wants or we want, but he works hard every day," Simeone said, according to Sports247.ng.

The Atletico manager also stressed that Lookman's willingness to take on defenders remains important to the team's attacking approach, even when those attempts do not succeed.

"He's a dribbler, and he needs to lose the ball sometimes," Simeone explained, according to Sports247.ng.

Simeone reiterated his faith in the Nigerian international despite the decline in his recent output.

"I believe in him," he said, according to Sports247.ng.

The coach also described fluctuations in individual performance as a normal part of football, noting that players cannot maintain their highest level throughout an entire season.

"Each player has their own moment. I don't think any player is always at their best; there are injuries," Simeone said, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Lookman's difficulties have coincided with changes to his role at Atletico. Afrik-Foot reported that he has been used in different attacking positions rather than consistently operating on the left wing, where he was particularly effective at Atalanta.

The positional adjustments have required him to take on different responsibilities in the final third. His only league goal this season came during Atletico's 3-1 victory over Sevilla in August, when he played on the left wing, according to Afrik-Foot.

Atletico's tactical demands may also be contributing to his adjustment. Afrik-Foot reported that the forward is expected to contribute more defensively and track back, adding responsibilities to his attacking duties.

Simeone praised teammate Alex Baena, who has shown improved form after an injury-affected period, and said he was managing players according to their respective circumstances to benefit the team.

Atletico entered the Manchester United fixture seeking points in the Champions League league phase after losing their opening match against Liverpool at Anfield on September 9. Lookman appeared as a substitute in that game, entering in the 59th minute, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

The match against Manchester United offered Atletico another opportunity to strengthen their position in the competition, while Lookman remained under pressure to turn his training efforts into more consistent performances.