Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has apologised to Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman for playing him as a makeshift central striker, admitting that the Nigerian has sacrificed his preferred position to help the team.
Simeone explained that a shortage of fit forwards forced his tactical decision. Alexander Sørloth remains sidelined by injury, while Julián Álvarez is pushing for an exit, leaving Lookman to lead the attack from a central position.
The Argentine coach revealed that he personally apologised to Lookman in the dressing room after recognising the sacrifice the winger had made for the team. Simeone praised the 28-year-old for his attitude and willingness to adapt despite playing in a position that does not suit his natural game.
“I apologised to Ademola Lookman, first, in the locker room, telling him: ‘I know it’s not your place, you were supposed to help us because right now Alexander Sørloth is injured, Julián Álvarez is recovering very well, and he’s the one helping us,’” Simeone said in comments reported by Futbol Fantasy.
The 56-year-old admitted that the central role has taken Lookman away from the areas where he poses the greatest threat. He described the Nigerian as a player who enjoys running at opponents, dribbling, scoring and taking defenders on in one-on-one situations.
“I understand, and I know him, that he’s a good guy. He’s putting in a tremendous effort, especially in the team’s work,” Simeone said.
“He’s missing what he enjoys, which is dribbling, scoring goals, and taking on defenders one-on-one.”
Simeone said Lookman will return to a wider attacking role once Atlético have more options in attack. The coach believes the Super Eagles star can rediscover his best form when he has the freedom to attack defenders from the flanks.
“And we’re going to give him that back, obviously, when we have the forwards available to share those spaces on the field that make us better as a team,” Simeone said.
