Nigeria: Atlético Madrid annoyed by the way Ademola Lookman is being used in the national team

Atlético Madrid did not hide its displeasure with Ademola Lookman’s handling by the Nigeria coach, Éric Chelle, during the last international break. According to information from the daily AS, the Madrid club is concerned about the intensive use of its forward, started in the two friendly matches played against Jordan and Iran. Lookman indeed played the full two matches, totaling 180 minutes of play. He was notably on the field for the entire match in the 2-1 victory over Iran, before following up with another full performance in the 2-2 draw against Jordan, in Antalya.

A management deemed excessive by the Colchoneros’ executives, all the more so since these were friendlies with no competitive stakes. Arrived this winter from Atalanta, the Nigerian international has quickly established himself as a key member of the Madrid squad. With solid performances, he already has an impressive record of five goals and four assists in 14 appearances across all competitions. In this context, Atlético intends to preserve its player as the end of the season approaches. The club fears that an overload of work with the national team could lead to increased fatigue or a risk of injury, potentially compromising its ambitions in the various competitions.