Simeone Apologises to Lookman as Fans Boo Alvarez over Another Atletico Draw

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has publicly apologized to Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman for deploying him in an unfamiliar top-striking role. This tactical adjustment has been necessitated by the injuries to key forwards Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez.

“

I apologized to Ademola Lookman, first, in the locker room, telling him: ‘I know it’s not your place, you were supposed to help us because right now Alexander Sørloth is injured, Julián Álvarez is recovering very well, and he’s the one helping us.’

Lookman, who has struggled to score in Atletico's opening two La Liga matches against Málaga and Villarreal, has been playing in a position that does not leverage his natural strengths. Simeone acknowledged that Lookman's preferred role involves dribbling, scoring, and taking on defenders one-on-one, and expressed his intention to return him to a more suitable position once the team's full attacking force is available.

Adding to the team's challenges, striker Julián Álvarez faced jeers from his own fans during the recent 2-2 draw with Villarreal. This occurred amidst ongoing speculation about his potential departure from the club, with reports linking him to moves to Arsenal and Barcelona before the September 1 transfer deadline. Álvarez had previously expressed a desire to "fulfill my dream" during the World Cup.

“

I understand, and I know him, that he’s a good guy. He’s putting in a tremendous effort, especially in the team’s work.

Simeone praised Lookman's effort and commitment to the team despite the difficult circumstances. He emphasized that Lookman is a "good guy" who is making a "tremendous effort," particularly in his team contributions. The manager's apology and comments highlight the ongoing adjustments and pressures within the Atletico Madrid squad as they navigate injuries and player speculation early in the 2026/2027 La Liga season.

“

He’s missing what he enjoys, which is dribbling, scoring goals, and taking on defenders one-on-one. And we’re going to give him that back, obviously, when we have the forwards available to share those spaces on the field that make us better as a team.