Simeone backs Lookman to rediscover form for Atletico Madrid against Bayern Munich

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone says he has “a lot of faith” in Ademola Lookman and believes the Nigeria forward can overcome a difficult spell before the club’s UEFA Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich.

Lookman has found it difficult to reproduce the form he displayed after joining Atletico Madrid last season, while his opportunities have become more limited in recent weeks.

The 28-year-old was given only 14 minutes during Atletico’s 2-0 win over Levante last Saturday, underlining his reduced role in the team’s recent domestic fixtures.

Simeone, however, has urged Lookman to remain patient rather than allow his current situation to affect his confidence. The Atletico manager said challenging periods were a normal part of both football and life, and that the forward needed to continue working and trust his own ability.

“I have a lot of faith in him. I don’t want him to get frustrated because he’s not going through his best moment, because it’s part of life, part of the game, part of football,” Simeone told reporters.

“This is work, this is believing in what you do.”

While Lookman has struggled to make the same impact in domestic competition, he has offered signs of his quality on the European stage this season.

He has scored one goal and provided one assist in three Champions League appearances for Atletico Madrid. Across all competitions, the Nigerian has contributed two goals and one assist in 14 appearances for the LaLiga club.

Simeone’s comments came as Atletico prepared for the visit of Bayern Munich, with Lookman hoping for an opportunity to make a greater contribution in one of the team’s most important fixtures.

The forward’s first season at Atletico had raised expectations after he made a strong impression following his arrival. His reduced involvement this term has since made it more difficult for him to build momentum, although his Champions League record shows he has still been able to influence matches in Europe.

Simeone’s message is that Lookman’s current run should be treated as a temporary setback rather than a reason to lose belief. The manager has made clear that continued effort and confidence remain central to the player’s chances of returning to his best level.