Former Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro has advised Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone that striker is the optimal position for new signing Ademola Lookman, despite the player’s established reputation as a versatile winger.
Lookman joined Atletico from Serie A club Atalanta during the January transfer window. The Nigerian international is known for his ability to operate across the forward line, including on both wings. However, Peseiro, who coached Lookman with the Super Eagles, contends that the 26-year-old’s most impactful role is centrally positioned as a striker.
Speaking to Spanish publication Marca, Peseiro explained his assessment. “On the wing, he creates imbalance and makes good diagonal runs, but his best position is as a striker,” he stated. “He is very decisive when he is in the inside channels and sees the space because that is where he shoots, dribbles, or assists.”
Peseiro highlighted Lookman’s technical footwork as his primary asset, while also noting his physical robustness. “His greatest strength is his footwork, although it is true that he is very strong behind, as we saw in his debut; that is another quality that can cause problems for Barcelona,” he added, referring to a recent performance.
This tactical insight arrives as Simeone evaluates how to integrate Lookman into an Atletico attack that has often relied on a traditional central striker. While Lookman’s pace and dribbling have been effective in wide areas, Peseiro’s experience suggests deploying him in a central role could maximize his decision-making in high-pressure areas, enhancing his goal contribution and link-up play.
The guidance from Peseiro provides a specific, experience-based perspective as Atletico Madrid plots their final stretch of the La Liga season and looks ahead to future fixtures. How Simeone utilizes Lookman’s skillset will be a key narrative for the team’s offensive strategy in the coming months.
