Ademola Lookman ‘Isn’t at his best level’ – Simeone gives honest verdict ahead of Man United clash

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has backed Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman to come good despite his slow start to the season.

​Lookman has endured a difficult start to the campaign at Atletico. Recall that he only just joined the club from Atalanta in a deal worth €35 million in January, and he enjoyed a great start to life for Los Rojiblancos, contributing nine goals and four assists in 24 appearances.

​That fine start promised a lot, and it looked like he would even improve this season since he would have had a pre-season and gotten used to life in Spain.

​But so far, the 28-year-old has not lived up to expectations. He has featured in nine games this season, with just a goal to his name. It has not even been just about the goals; he has not looked his usual best.

​As a result, Lookman has dropped down the pecking order of attackers at Atletico Madrid, with Alex Baena getting the nod to start most of the games.

​Next up for Atletico Madrid is a UEFA Champions League fixture against Manchester United at Old Trafford, and they will be looking to claim the all-important three points.

​What Diego Simeone Said About Ademola Lookman Ahead of Man United Clash

​Ahead of Atletico Madrid's game against Manchester United at the Estadio Metropolitano on Monday, coach Diego Simeone spoke about Ademola Lookman, and he admitted that the Nigerian has not been at his best lately. He, however, expressed positivity regarding the player's work ethic while expressing belief in him.

​“Ademola isn’t at the level he wants or we want, but he works hard every day. He’s a dribbler, and he needs to lose the ball sometimes. I believe in him,” Simeone said.

​Lookman started Atleti's last game at Alaves, but was subbed off after just 47 minutes. And it was not due to fitness; it was purely tactical.

​Today's game against Manchester United will be tough, and Simeone usually likes to start Lookman in these types of fixtures. Moreover, the attacker spent most of his early career playing in England, so he definitely understands terrain and how it is to play against Manchester United. It now remains to be seen if the Super Eagles star will start against the Red Devils.