Former Nigeria international Godwin Okpara has thrown his support behind Ademola Lookman’s transfer to Atletico Madrid, describing the move as a major step forward for the Super Eagles winger.
Lookman sealed his switch from Atalanta during the January transfer window and made his La Liga debut on Sunday in Atletico’s clash against Real Betis, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
Lookman’s decision attracted attention after interest from Turkish giants Fenerbahce, but Okpara believes the 28-year-old made the correct choice by joining one of Spain’s elite clubs.
The former Paris Saint-Germain defender stressed that the exposure and competitive level of La Liga provide the ideal platform for Lookman to elevate his game and enhance his global reputation.
Speaking to Footy Africa, Okpara was emphatic in his assessment of Lookman’s decision.
“Just look at it when you look at Fenerbahce, and look at Atletico Madrid. Even a blind person would not choose Fenerbahce,” he said.
“Not that it’s not a good league. It’s a good league. But exposure is where you want to improve your game, where the whole world will see you. This is the league (La Liga). This is the right league for him to go to.”
Okpara acknowledged the competitiveness of Turkish football but maintained that Spain’s top flight offers a broader audience and greater developmental opportunities for players seeking to perform at the highest level.
“You know, we are not saying that the Turkish league is bad, no. Would you want people to see you? People all over the world are watching La Liga. Two people are watching the Turkish league. So, I mean, nobody would take Fenerbahçe rather than going to Atletico Madrid,” he added.
The former defender also suggested that Lookman’s arrival could have a positive ripple effect for Nigerian football.
“So it’s the right choice. They know themselves that Lookman will not come. They just tried, and at the end of the day, he wouldn’t take them. It’s a gamble thing. I’m very happy for him. And it’s good for our nation,” Okpara said.
