Ademola Lookman reveals what playing a new role is teaching him

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has opened up on the changes to his role at Atletico Madrid this season and revealed how he is adapting to the demands of playing in different positions, Soccernet.ng reports.

Lookman joined the Spanish heavyweights earlier in the year and enjoyed a solid half-season after arriving from Atalanta. However, Atletico fell short of winning silverware as they ended the campaign trophyless, losing in the semifinals of the Champions League and in the final of the Copa del Rey.

The 28-year-old, who has been impressed by the level of passion shown by the club’s supporters, played mainly in his favoured left-wing position during his first few months at the club and impressed in the role.

Ademola Lookman moves with the ball during UEFA Champions League 2025 26 match beetween Atletico de Madrid and Arsenal. Copyright: xAlejandroxMatiasxImago

However, Lookman has been used in different positions this season following the departure of Antoine Griezmann and the circumstances surrounding Julian Alvarez. The Argentine forward pushed for an exit from the club but did not get his wish, while his relationship with the Atletico fans has become strained.

As a result, Lookman has taken on a much different role this season. The Nigerian forward has featured in seven games for Atletico so far and has played in three different positions across those appearances.

Lookman has played on the left wing just twice, while he has featured more centrally in three games and played in a supporting striker role twice, as he continues to adapt to Diego Simeone's demands.

Ademola Lookman of Atletico de Madrid celebrates a goal. Copyright: xJoaquinxCorcheroxImago

Ademola Lookman opens up on new Atletico Madrid role

The 28-year-od has scored just once so far this season as he continues to adapt to his new roles at Atletico Madrid.

Speaking in an interview with Sporty TV, Ademola Lookman revealed what it has been like playing in different positions and explained how the experience can help him become a better player for the Spanish club.

“I think it's a learning process. As you said, trying to learn different positions can certainly enrich my game and make me a more complete player”, the Nigerian star said.

“So for me, the challenge is to learn these different positions and understand how I should play with and without the ball.

“That is another aspect that must be learned and adapted. I enjoy learning and enjoying understanding new positions and understanding the game even more.”

Super Eagles star ready for Madrid derby

Atletico Madrid will welcome Real Madrid to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday for the first Madrid derby of the 2026/27 season.

Lookman scored the last time the two teams faced each other in his first taste of the derby earlier in the year and will be hoping to make another impact when they meet again.

Ademola Lookman of Atletico de Madrid celebrates a goal vs Real Madrid. Copyright: ImagoxGuillermoxMartinezx

“They are a first-class team. We know that facing such a good team will definitely be a tough fight”, Lookman continued.

“But we are ready for the challenge. Our team also has many excellent players, so we are waiting for this challenge and this contest.

“They are a first-class team. As you just said, there are many important soccer names in the squad, and also a first-class coach.

“But, ultimately, it's just a soccer game. For us, it's about performing as we should in a game like this, so we're looking forward to doing it”, he added.

Atletico de Madrid's Antoine Griezmann and Ademola Lookman. (Photo by Imago)

Lookman will be aiming to end his four-game goalless streak when Atletico face Real Madrid on Sunday, as they hope to close the gap to Barcelona at the top of the standings.