Ademola Lookman happy to make impact as Atletico Madrid beat Manchester United

Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman says his priority is to help Atletico Madrid, whether he starts or comes on as a substitute, after scoring in their 2-0 UEFA Champions League win over Manchester United.

Lookman was introduced from the bench and scored Atletico’s second goal, completing a positive contribution to a victory he said was built on the work of his team-mates before his arrival.

“Yeah, no, very happy. Obviously, to come on and help the team is important,” Lookman said.

The Nigerian international said his role as a substitute is to add intensity to the match while supporting the team at both ends of the pitch.

“I just bring the energy, try to help the team, you know, defensively, of course, and offensively when I get the chance to,” he said.

Lookman also praised the players who started the match, saying their performance had created the conditions for him to settle into the game and make an impact.

“Obviously, the guys put on a big performance before I came on, so it’s easy to come into the team and then to play,” he said.

“Very happy with the team’s performance.”

His goal helped secure a significant result for Atletico, who now turn their attention to their next domestic fixture. Lookman said the victory could provide confidence as the team seeks to carry its momentum into the weekend.

“Of course, we know how big of a win that is for us. It puts us into the confidence for the next game, which is on Saturday or Sunday,” he said.

The forward played down the importance of his own goal compared with Atletico’s overall display. His comments reflected an emphasis on collective responsibility, with every member of the squad expected to contribute when given the opportunity.

Lookman’s approach also highlights his determination to use each appearance to strengthen his position within the team. Rather than focusing solely on whether he is selected from the start, he said his attention remains on making a difference whenever he is called upon.

“Game after game,” Lookman concluded.

The goal against Manchester United was therefore another useful contribution from the Nigeria forward, but his immediate objective remains helping Atletico Madrid preserve the confidence and winning momentum gained from their UEFA Champions League victory.