Lookman, Atlético's unfinished business this season

Lookman has struggled to replicate last season's form despite scoring 2 goals in 13 appearances; Simeone is working to restore him to his best.

Ademola Lookman arrived at Atlético Madrid in the winter transfer window as a star signing and made an immediate impact, scoring 9 goals and providing 4 assists in 24 appearances. He played a key role in important matches, including scoring in the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad and the crucial 1–2 against Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-final that sent Atlético to the semi-finals.

However, this season Lookman has failed to recapture that form. In 13 matches totalling 692 minutes, he has scored 2 goals and provided 1 assist. His performances have been inconsistent—he set up Julián Álvarez's goal against Stuttgart but was substituted at half-time against Deportivo for lack of impact. The Nigerian had no World Cup commitments and prepared well over the summer with his teammates.

Diego Simeone is focused on getting Lookman back to his best. The manager has experimented with a 4–3–3 formation in recent matches, positioning Lookman as a left winger, a system that could suit him if he returns to last season's level of performance.