Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman is expected to play a bigger role in Atletico Madrid’s attack this season, with manager Diego Simeone and his coaching staff wanting even more from the Nigerian following a bright start to pre-season.

Lookman made an early impression, scoring twice in just five minutes during Atletico’s 4-1 friendly win over Getafe. The 28 year old joined the club during the winter transfer window and made 24 appearances last season, scoring nine goals and providing four assists.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Lookman scored a goal every 153 minutes last season, a better rate than teammates Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann. Including assists, he was involved in a goal every 106 minutes, the best rate among Atletico’s players across the 2025-26 campaign.

The club’s coaching staff have been pleased with his progress through the opening weeks of pre-season, with training sessions focused as much on Atletico’s overall style of play, movement, and partnerships as on the Getafe display itself. The mood in the dressing room has reportedly been that “Lookman is flying,” with the Nigerian said to be in excellent physical condition and fully committed in training.

Having spent several months adapting to life in Madrid, expectations around Lookman are now rising, with the coaching staff wanting him to take on more responsibility, both in his football and as a leader on the pitch. His improved fitness has also been a welcome sign after a spring in which recurring problems affected his ability to complete matches. Simeone continues to work with him on both his attacking and defensive duties as Atletico prepare for the new season.