‘Lookman is going to have a great year at Atlético Madrid’ – ex-Super Eagles star

Published on by

Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has thrown his support behind Ademola Lookman’s decision to join Atlético Madrid, Afrik Foot reports.

The former Real Madrid B player described the move as bold and perfectly timed for the Nigerian forward’s career.

Per Soccernet.ng, Lookman is set to complete a €40 million switch from Atalanta to the Spanish giants, with Atlético Madrid paying €35 million upfront and a further €5 million in add-ons.

The 28-year-old has done his medical examination in Madrid and finalised the transfer, which brings an end to his successful spell in Italy.

Ademola Lookman
Ademola Lookman. Copyright: IMAGO

Ex-Super Eagles star hails Lookman’s decision

Speaking to Footy Africa on Lookman’s move, Adepoju praised the winger’s ambition and backed him to thrive under Diego Simeone in La Liga.

“I think it’s a very bold move and I really, really love it,” Adepoju said. “I think he’s going to a place where he is going to show his quality and everything that Ademola Lookman is about. I am very sure he is going to have a lot of support from Atlético Madrid.”

Ex Super Eagles star Mutiu Adepoju scores in a match between Spain and Nigeria
Mutiu Adepoju. Copyright: Tony Marshall / PA Images / Icon Sport

The former Real Madrid midfielder believes the club’s competitive environment will bring out the best in the Super Eagles star as he prepares for a new challenge in Spain.

‘A great year at Atlético Madrid ’

Speaking further, the former Super Eagles player described Lookman as a player capable of making an immediate impact.

“They are one of the biggest clubs in Spain and everybody knows the history of Ademola Lookman. He is a very good addition to the team and I think Lookman is going to have a great year at Atlético Madrid and in La Liga,” he added.

“I really love the move and I wish him all the best because I know he is a great guy and he deserves to be happy. I am very sure he is going to be happy because he is a great guy and a great footballer too.”

Ademola Lookman moves to Atletico Madrid
Ademola Lookman moves to Atletico Madrid. Copyright: Imago

Lookman leaves Atalanta after establishing himself as one of Serie A’s most dangerous attackers and playing a key role in their Europa League success.

His move to Atlético Madrid will also see him become only the second Nigerian to play for the club’s men’s team, following Abass Lawal.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Editor Site Coordinator

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.