Simeone apologises to Lookman after Atletico draw with Villarreal

Diego Simeone apologised to Ademola Lookman after using the Atletico forward as an out-and-out centre-forward in the 1-1 La Liga draw with Villarreal at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

The Argentina head coach explained that Lookman had been asked to fill a role outside his preferred position because Atletico are currently short of attacking options. The 28-year-old Super Eagles winger started through the middle against the Yellow Submarine and played for 79 minutes.

He was then substituted after defender Robin Le Normand was shown a straight red card. The dismissal forced Simeone into a tactical change, with Giuliano Simeone scoring Atletico’s equaliser six minutes later.

“I apologised to Ademola Lookman,” revealed Diego Simeone after the match.

“First, in the locker room, telling him: ‘I know it’s not your place; you were supposed to help us because right now Alexander Sorloth is injured, Julian Alvarez is recovering very well, and he’s the one helping us.’

“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.”

Lookman, the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, has made 26 appearances for Los Colchoneros, scoring nine goals and providing four assists.

Simeone said he recognised that the forward was being asked to sacrifice the parts of his game he enjoys most. The Atletico manager indicated that Lookman would be moved back to a wider role once the club’s other forwards are available.

“He’s missing what he enjoys, which is dribbling, scoring goals, and taking on defenders one-on-one,” added the Argentine mentor.

“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.”

Lookman’s deployment reflected Atletico’s current attacking situation. Alexander Sorloth is injured, while Julian Alvarez is recovering and has been helping the team during the period of limited availability in the forward positions.

Despite the disruption caused by Le Normand’s dismissal, Atletico remained competitive against Villarreal and recovered to earn a point after Giuliano Simeone’s late contribution. The result leaves Simeone’s side preparing for another demanding league fixture next weekend.

Atletico will travel to face Sevilla on Saturday as they turn their attention to their next La Liga match.