Atletico Madrid express concern to NFF over Lookman’s workload

By Seyi Babalola

Atletico Madrid is reportedly dissatisfied with how Nigeria used Ademola Lookman during the March international break.

The Spanish club, which signed Lookman for €35 million following his spectacular performances at the 2025 AFCON, has been carefully managing the forward’s minutes since his arrival.

Under head coach Diego Simeone, the 28-year-old has not completed a full match, with his longest outing being 73 minutes in a Copa del Rey victory over Barcelona.

However, the situation was different on international duty. Lookman featured heavily for the Super Eagles, playing nearly the entire duration of two friendly matches—logging 89 minutes against Iran and completing the full game against Jordan.

According to reports from Spanish outlet AS, Atletico believe the workload placed on the winger in non-competitive fixtures was excessive, particularly given their efforts to manage his fitness.

The club are said to be concerned that the heavy minutes could leave him fatigued at a crucial stage of the season.

The report also indicates that Atletico is dissatisfied with the decision, claiming that the friendlies provided an opportunity to rotate the group rather than relying heavily on one player.

Their fears are exacerbated by chronic injury troubles in the squad, with several key players presently out. This has put more strain on Diego Simeone, who is dealing with a busy schedule.

Athletico face a busy schedule in the coming weeks, with repeated battles with Barcelona, as well as games against Sevilla, Real Sociedad, Elche, and Athletic Club, raising concerns about player tiredness.

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