Super Eagles news: Lookman faces Atletico Madrid problem that could cost him his place

Ademola Lookman’s place at Atlético Madrid is facing an intriguing test after a slow start to the new season collided with an increasingly crowded attacking department, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigeria international arrived from Atalanta with a reputation as one of Europe’s most dangerous wide attackers. Lookman was an instant hit in Madrid with the Super Eagles forward bagging goals and assists for fun. However, his current numbers leave little room for complacency.

The former Everton and Fulham winger has managed only one goal from seven appearances and 460 minutes in the 2026/27 campaign.

The competition around Lookman has become fierce as Atletico Madrid made a couple of interesting signings in the summer. Diego Simeone can call upon Julián Álvarez, Alexander Sørloth and Jonathan David as recognised forwards, while Álex Baena, Giuliano Simeone and Kang-in Lee offer further attacking options.

Ademola Lookman

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The warning arrived in Atlético’s Madrid derby against Real Madrid on September 20. Jonathan David started alongside Giuliano, Baena and Kang-in Lee, while Lookman and Álvarez began on the bench.

An in-form Lookman would have started that Madrid derby, especially with his ability to operate as a second striker or on either wing a crucial weapon for coach Simeone. Instead, he came off the bench in the 67th minute with Atlético already 2-nil up. The Nigeria international helped the club see out a 2-1 win but he managed zero shots, lost possession thrice and touched the ball 17 times in the 23 minutes he spent on the pitch.

While Lookman remains a key player for Simeone at the Wanda Metropolitano, the 27-year-old is now aware that Atletico boast several possible combinations competing for the same attacking spaces.

Lookman's struggles extended to Super Eagles duty

Lookman’s international form has offered little escape from the club concerns. He started both of Nigeria’s opening AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau but finished the September double-header without a goal or assist.

Against Madagascar in Uyo on September 25, Lookman played 69 minutes, had a shot blocked and supplied the cross from which Calvin Bassey forced a save. He was replaced by Tolu Arokodare before Moses Usor scored Nigeria’s winning goal.

Four days later in Bissau, the former Atalanta ace tested Fernando Embadjé twice inside the opening 14 minutes, including a left-footed effort created by Alex Iwobi, but the goalkeeper kept both attempts out. He was substituted in the 68th minute as Nigeria collapsed to a 3-0 defeat.

Lookman's attacking output remains modest for both club and country this season with new challenges rising from other attackers hungry to seize their chances.

With a clear battle on his hands ahead of a return to league action and the next international break, the Nigerian will be keen to rediscover his best form in October.