Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is weighing a tactical reshuffle that could hand Nigeria international Ademola Lookman a different assignment as the club seeks to revive the forward’s earlier impact.
Simeone is assessing a move to a 4-3-3 shape, which could see Lookman used on the left flank. The 29-year-old Super Eagles attacker has already been deployed in a range of advanced roles this term, including on the left wing, behind the main striker, as a central forward and in attacking midfield.
Lookman began strongly after joining Atletico from Atalanta in the winter transfer window. He scored once and created another goal on his first appearance, when Atletico swept aside Real Betis 5-0.
He quickly developed into a key member of Simeone’s side, contributing to the club’s run to the Copa del Rey final and the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. Across all competitions, he finished that campaign with nine goals and four assists from 24 matches.
That output has proved harder to reproduce this season. Lookman has recorded two goals and one assist in 13 appearances, playing a total of 692 minutes.
While he recently set up Julian against Stuttgart, his wider performance in Atletico’s match against Deportivo was less effective. Simeone reportedly substituted him at the interval following an underwhelming first half.
The Atletico manager is now considering whether both a revised system and a clearer positional role can restore Lookman’s attacking edge. A left-wing berth in a 4-3-3 could give the Nigerian more room to exploit his speed, close control and instinct to attack defenders.
Simeone will be hoping such an adjustment delivers a turnaround and enables Lookman to regain the influential role he previously held in Atletico Madrid’s forward line.
