Ademola Lookman breaks silence on poor form after ending goal drought against Manchester United

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has admitted he has struggled for form at the start of the season after scoring in Atlético Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League.

The Nigerian international came off the bench to find the net in the 79th minute at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, helping Diego Simeone’s side secure their first win in the competition this season.

Lookman’s goal ended a six-match scoring drought and offered a timely boost after a difficult opening to the campaign, during which he has struggled to reproduce the form that established him as one of Atlético’s attacking threats.

Reflecting on the result, the forward acknowledged his personal difficulties but insisted he remained determined to work through the challenging period.

Lookman admits difficult start to season

The 28-year-old made an immediate impact after his introduction, finishing into an unguarded net after Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens parried Jonathan David’s effort into his path.

His goal sealed the victory for Atlético and gave the Nigerian a reason to celebrate after a frustrating run in front of goal.

Despite his individual contribution, Lookman was quick to highlight the collective effort behind the result, praising Atlético’s performance at both ends of the pitch.

“A big performance from the team, all round defensively and offensively. A big, big performance from us,” he told the club’s media.

The forward also acknowledged that his own performances had fallen short of his expectations, making it clear that he understood the need to improve as the season progresses.

“Very happy, but I have not really had the best start to the season myself, personally. But keep on going, keep on fighting, keep on working. That is the mindset.”

His comments reflect his determination to remain focused despite the challenges, with the goal against Manchester United potentially providing the platform for a return to his best form.

Goal offers timely boost for Atlético and Nigeria

Lookman’s struggles have extended beyond club football, with the forward failing to score in Nigeria’s September international fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

His inability to find the net during the FIFA international window added to a difficult period for the Super Eagles attacker, who will be eager to make a greater impact for his country.

The goal against Manchester United could therefore prove significant for both Atlético Madrid and Nigeria as they look ahead to their respective fixtures.

For Atlético, Lookman’s attacking contribution offers another option for Simeone as the Spanish side seek greater consistency in the Champions League and their domestic campaign.

For Nigeria, the forward’s return to scoring form would be encouraging as the Super Eagles continue their preparations for upcoming international assignments.

Simeone will hope Lookman builds on breakthrough

Although one goal does not necessarily signal an end to Lookman’s difficult spell, the timing of his breakthrough offers encouragement.

The Nigerian has shown that he can influence major European fixtures, and his finish against Manchester United demonstrated his ability to capitalise on opportunities in the penalty area.

The challenge now will be to build on that contribution and turn promising performances into consistent goals.

Lookman has already identified the approach he believes will help him recover his form: continued hard work, persistence and determination.

With Atlético looking to maintain their momentum after their Champions League victory, the forward will hope his latest goal marks the beginning of a more productive spell.

For the Super Eagles, a confident and regularly scoring Lookman would also be a welcome development as Nigeria look to draw on the quality of their European-based players in future international matches.