Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has publicly backed Nigerian international Ademola Lookman ahead of the club’s UEFA Champions League meeting with German giants Bayern Munich, insisting that he remains confident in the forward despite his recent struggles for consistency.
Simeone’s comments come as Atletico prepare to welcome Bayern Munich to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in a Matchday Four encounter of the Champions League league phase.
The match is an important fixture for both clubs as they seek to improve their positions and strengthen their chances of progressing directly to the knockout stages.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Simeone acknowledged that Lookman has not enjoyed the start to the season he would have preferred but maintained that the Nigerian remains an important member of his squad.
The Argentine manager urged the forward not to become frustrated by his recent performances, stressing that difficult periods are a normal part of professional football.
Simeone explained that players sometimes experience periods when goals and assists become difficult to produce, but confidence, hard work and persistence are essential to overcoming such challenges.
He also compared Lookman’s situation with difficult periods previously experienced by other Atletico players, including Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann.
According to the manager, he believes Lookman has the technical ability and attacking qualities required to rediscover his best form.
Simeone expresses confidence in Nigerian forward
Simeone specifically highlighted Lookman’s ability to defeat opponents in one-on-one situations, particularly in the final third of the pitch.
The manager believes this quality makes the Nigerian forward valuable to Atletico’s attacking approach because his ability to beat defenders can create opportunities for goals and assists.
He also warned against allowing frustration to affect the player’s confidence during a difficult period.
Lookman has recorded two goals and one assist in 14 appearances across all competitions for Atletico Madrid this season, according to reports published ahead of the Bayern encounter.
His playing time has also reduced in recent weeks, with the Nigerian making only a brief appearance in Atletico’s recent league victory over Levante.
Despite these challenges, Simeone has continued to publicly support the forward and believes he can return to his best level.
The manager’s comments will provide encouragement for Lookman as he seeks to establish himself more firmly in Atletico’s attacking plans.
Bayern Munich present major European test
Atletico Madrid face a difficult challenge against Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s most established football clubs.
The German side will arrive in Madrid with several injury concerns involving important members of their squad.
Among the players reported unavailable ahead of the match are Luis Diaz, Jamal Musiala, Serge Gnabry and Ismael Saibari.
Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer’s fitness has also been a concern, although Michael Olise has returned to training.
Harry Kane remains one of Bayern’s major attacking threats following his impressive performances and recent Ballon d’Or recognition.
Bayern will be seeking an important result to improve their Champions League position after drawing their previous two league-phase matches.
Atletico, meanwhile, have been enjoying an encouraging run of domestic form, having remained unbeaten in nine consecutive matches across competitions, winning eight of them.
However, Simeone understands that Bayern will present a different level of competition.
He has emphasised the importance of maintaining tactical discipline, controlling difficult periods and taking advantage of opportunities when they arise.
Lookman faces opportunity to make European statement
The encounter against Bayern provides Lookman with an opportunity to demonstrate his quality on one of European football’s biggest stages.
The Nigerian forward has previously attracted international attention through his performances in European competitions, particularly his outstanding display in Atalanta’s 2024 UEFA Europa League final victory over Bayer Leverkusen.
In that final, Lookman scored a historic hat-trick to help Atalanta secure their first major European trophy.
His performances during that campaign established him as one of Africa’s most exciting attacking players and increased expectations surrounding his career.
Moving to Atletico Madrid provided another opportunity to compete at the highest level of European football.
However, adapting to a new tactical system, competition for attacking positions and expectations at a major club can present challenges for any player.
For Lookman, consistency will be important as he seeks to earn more playing time and establish a stronger relationship with his teammates.
Atletico seek important Champions League victory
The Bayern encounter is also significant for Atletico’s wider European ambitions.
A victory would provide an important boost to the Spanish side’s campaign and strengthen their position in the league-phase standings.
Bayern, however, will be determined to avoid another disappointing result and demonstrate their ability to compete for the Champions League title.
With both teams possessing experienced players and strong attacking options, the contest is expected to attract considerable attention from football supporters.
For Nigerian fans, particular interest will centre on Lookman’s involvement and whether he can translate Simeone’s confidence into an influential performance.
Although the manager’s public backing does not guarantee a starting position, it demonstrates that the Nigerian remains part of his plans.
As Atletico prepare for the encounter, Lookman will be hoping to use the opportunity to rediscover his attacking rhythm and strengthen his position within the team.
