Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has apologised to Ademola Lookman for deploying him outside his favourite position, citing injuries in the attacking line.
Speaking about the player’s recent role, Simeone said: “I have to apologize to Ademola; I know that’s not his position.”
He explained that the decision was driven by squad shortages. “We needed him to help us there because Sorloth is injured and Julián is working his way back to his best form,” the Argentine coach added, referring to Alexander Sørloth and Julián Álvarez.
Simeone praised Lookman’s attitude while acknowledging the impact on his game. “He’s a great kid, and he’s working hard, but he was missing the things he enjoys most: dribbling, scoring goals, taking players on one-on-one.”
The manager indicated that the situation is temporary. “We’ll get him back to doing those things once we have our attacking players available again,” he said.
Lookman joined Atletico Madrid from Atalanta and has been used in a more flexible role amid the absences. Simeone’s comments underline the club’s intention to restore the winger to a position that better suits his strengths once the forward options return to full fitness.
