Simeone challenges Lookman to rediscover Atletico Madrid form

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone says Ademola Lookman must work harder and avoid dwelling on his difficulties if he is to regain his best form at the Spanish club.

The Nigeria forward has made a disappointing start to the new season, scoring only once in nine appearances across all competitions. His performances have fallen short of the level he showed during his first months with the Spanish heavyweights.

Lookman joined Atletico Madrid from Atalanta during the winter transfer window in a deal worth around €35 million. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut in a 5-0 Copa del Rey victory over Real Betis.

The 28-year-old went on to enjoy an impressive second half of the season and finished as Atletico’s player with the second-highest goal contribution behind Julian Alvarez from the time he joined the club.

However, he has been unable to maintain that standard this season and his difficulties continued in last weekend’s 2-1 win over Alaves, when he was substituted at half-time.

Simeone backs Lookman to recover

Simeone discussed Lookman’s struggles before Atletico’s Champions League meeting with Manchester United on Tuesday.

The Argentine acknowledged that the Super Eagles forward has not been performing at the level expected of him, but also highlighted that Lookman has already demonstrated his ability in an Atletico shirt.

Lookman is still adapting to the demands of his new role at the club. Simeone’s message is that the forward must respond by continuing to work hard rather than allowing his current problems to affect his confidence.

The match against Manchester United will give Lookman an opportunity to improve his form as Atletico seek their first points in this season’s Champions League.

Simeone’s side lost 2-1 to Liverpool in their opening fixture and will be looking to recover against a United team that has already defeated them in pre-season.

Atletico seek Champions League response

Atletico will expect a demanding contest at Manchester United and Simeone will be determined to prevent another defeat against the English club.

The manager’s priority will be to ensure his players are ready for the demands of the encounter as they attempt to begin their Champions League campaign with a positive result.

Lookman, meanwhile, will hope to produce a significantly improved display and rebuild the confidence that helped him make such a strong impression after joining Atletico Madrid.

His early contribution last season established him as an important attacking option, but his return of one goal in nine games this campaign underlines the challenge he faces in rediscovering that level of performance.