Former Super Eagles midfielder Friday Ekpo has described Ademola Lookman’s move to Atlético Madrid as a positive and timely step in his career, saying the transfer will help the Nigerian forward grow and improve his overall game.
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Reacting to the move, Ekpo congratulated Lookman for joining what he termed a “bigger and good club,” noting that the decision shows the winger’s desire to challenge himself at a higher level.
“Congratulations to Ademola Lookman for moving to a bigger and a good club at the same time,” Ekpo said. “Yes, other clubs that we and some of the Nigerians have played for are good, but now he’s trying to better his game, improve himself in every area that he thinks is necessary for him to do so.”
Ekpo stressed that succeeding at Atlético Madrid will require more than talent, urging Lookman to quickly adapt to Diego Simeone’s demanding system and put in the hard work required to earn his place in the team.
“So he needs to be there, he needs to adapt to the kind of system they are playing, he needs to work hard, needs to do everything that he needs to make him grow in the game,” he added.
The former international also highlighted the importance of defensive responsibility in modern football, pointing out that attackers are expected to contribute defensively, especially at a club like Atlético Madrid.
“Going there, it’s not him playing a defensive football,” Ekpo explained. “In football, it’s not only defenders that defend, attackers should defend. So where do you start marking? You start from the opposing defensive area. If the ball passes, he gets back to the midfield and defends.”
Ekpo expressed confidence that Lookman has what it takes to succeed in Spain, insisting that consistent effort and discipline will allow him to make the most of the opportunity.
“So he’s going to improve his game and he will play so well, if given the opportunity, and he needs to work to earn that opportunity,” he concluded.
Lookman’s move to Atlético Madrid has generated excitement among Nigerian football fans, with many hopeful that the forward will continue his upward trajectory and make a strong impact in La Liga.
