Valencia and Nigeria forward Umar Sadiq has congratulated compatriot Ademola Lookman after his big-money move to Atlético Madrid from Atalanta BC, saying the Nigerian attacker deserves the chance to shine in one of the world’s premier leagues.
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Lookman completed his transfer to Atlético in early February, signing a long-term deal with the Spanish giants ahead of the closure of the winter window.
The move, reported to be worth around €35 million with add-ons, makes the Super Eagles forward one of the most high-profile Nigerian exports in the European game this season.
Speaking about the transfer, Sadiq expressed his happiness at seeing his compatriot in La Liga, describing it as the perfect stage for Lookman to showcase his talents.
“I’m glad to see him coming here to La Liga because probably this is the best league in the world,” Sadiq said. “You know, the best league needs the best players, and Ademola Lookman is one of the best players right now. It’s time for La Liga to know who he is and the world also will confirm who he is and I wish him all the best and I will see him soon.”
Lookman’s move has placed him alongside a growing contingent of Nigerian players competing in Spain’s top flight this season, including Sadiq himself at Valencia, as well as Super Eagles teammates Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams at Sevilla.
The 28-year-old winger arrives in Madrid off the back of an impressive spell in Italy with Atalanta, where he re-established himself as a key attacking figure and a vital contributor to the club’s success, including their historic 2024 UEFA Europa League triumph, a campaign in which Lookman scored a memorable hat-trick in the final.
With his La Liga debut now imminent, Sadiq’s backing adds to the growing optimism among Nigerian football circles that Lookman’s move could elevate his profile further and open new chapters in his club career while strengthening Nigeria’s presence in Spanish football.
