Lookman hits double as Atletico Madrid ease past Getafe in pre-season opener

Ademola Lookman struck twice as Atletico Madrid began their pre-season campaign with a 4-1 victory over LaLiga rivals Getafe, underlining the Nigeria forward’s growing importance to the Spanish club.

The 28-year-old, who joined Atletico from Atalanta in January, picked up where he left off last term by delivering a brace in the friendly as both sides continued their build-up to the new season.

Lookman’s goals were complemented by strikes from Arnau Ortiz and Obed Vargas, completing an emphatic win for Atletico against top-flight opposition and offering early encouragement ahead of the competitive campaign.

The Nigeria international had already made a strong impact in the second half of last season, scoring six times in 17 appearances in all competitions following his move from Serie A.

That form appears to have carried into the summer schedule, with his double against Getafe reinforcing the view inside the club that his performances were no short-term surge.

There had been speculation during the current transfer window that Atletico might consider selling the forward in an effort to balance their finances, with reports suggesting he could be moved on after just half a season in Spain.

However, the club’s hierarchy have rejected the prospect of an exit, dismissing the idea that Lookman could be offloaded before the new campaign begins.

As a result, the former Africa Footballer of the Year is now expected to start the season in Atletico colours and is aiming to improve on his return in what will be his first full year with the club.

Lookman’s display against Getafe, in Atletico’s opening warm-up fixture, will strengthen his case for a regular starting role as pre-season progresses.

The match also offered opportunities for others to impress, with Arnau Ortiz and Obed Vargas both on the scoresheet to round off the 4-1 success.

With further friendlies to come, Atletico will continue to fine-tune their preparations, but Lookman’s sharpness in front of goal has already emerged as one of the early positives of their summer programme.