Good move or wrong step? Aghahowa, Gueye clash over Ademola Lookman’s Atletico transfer

Ademola Lookman’s move to Atlético Madrid has triggered strong and opposing reactions from across the African football space, Afrik-Foot reports.

While former Super Eagles striker Julius Aghahowa welcomed the transfer, respected analyst Mamadou Gaye has sharply questioned the ambition behind it.

The Nigeria international completed a deadline-day switch from Atalanta after three and a half impressive seasons in Italy, signing a four-year deal that runs until 2030. During his time in Bergamo, Lookman delivered 82 goal involvements, 55 goals and 27 assists, in 137 matches across all competitions, becoming one of Serie A’s most feared attackers.

Proud to wear this badge for the first time, happy to get my first goal and even happier with the win. Aupa Atleti!! 🤍❤️ pic.twitter.com/KrtoNgN0jK

— Ademola Lookman (@Alookman_) February 6, 2026

His reputation only grew on the international stage. At the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Lookman was Nigeria’s driving force, producing four goals and four assists in six games as the Super Eagles secured a bronze medal.

The 27-year-old wasted no time making an impact in Spain, scoring and setting up another goal on his debut as Atlético thrashed Real Betis 5–0 in the Copa del Rey.

Ademola Lookman: Praise from Aghahowa, criticism from Gaye

Aghahowa believes Lookman’s move represents a fresh start at a club where his talent will be fully valued after a difficult end to his Atalanta spell.

“Lookman is a player that has impressed me very much, especially during AFCON 2025,” Aghahowa told Brila.

“Every time he is called upon, he represents and gives his best.

“Towards the end of his stay at Atalanta he was a bit down, not too happy, but now he has made a very good move.

“He can feel relieved because he is now at a big club in Europe. He will show the world what he is made of. La Liga will make him a better player because he loves to show his skills dribble, give assists, and express himself.

“The most important thing is playing time. When you play week in and week out, you improve and become better. That’s the only thing that can stop him. If he is allowed to play regularly, he will contribute to the success of the team and also the Super Eagles.”

However, Mamadou Gaye offered a far harsher assessment, arguing that Lookman should have targeted Europe’s most decorated clubs instead.

“Real Madrid and Barcelona — what is he doing with Atlético Madrid? What have they won? Have they won the Champions League? No, he’s not ambitious,” Mamadou Gaye said on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa.

“When you move to a club, it is to conquer Europe, not to finish third or fourth every year. Real Madrid and Barcelona are the two clubs; the others are just making up the numbers, like Atlético Madrid. Atlético are currently third on the table — that is where they belong.

“When you are Lookman, you value yourself. African Player of the Year two seasons ago, you go to the very top. Which huge club is Atlético Madrid?”

If Lookman features in La Liga this weekend, he will become only the 44th Nigerian in the history of the competition.