Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone praises new Nigerian signing Ademola Lookman ahead of Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Betis
Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has highlighted the qualities of new Nigerian import Ademola Lookman ahead of today’s Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Betis at La Cartuja.
Lookman officially joined Atletico from Atalanta on Monday, signing a four-year deal worth €40 million.
The 27-year-old, 2024 African Footballer of the Year, has been assigned the number 22 jersey and trained with the squad for the first time on Tuesday.
“He joined the group very quickly, and you could immediately notice his physical strength, his speed, his ability to change the play, and his power in the final third,” Simeone said.
“We hope he can help us in the way he believes he can, and in the way we expect. And obviously, those important partnerships are formed for the good of the team.”
Lookman and fellow new signing Obed Vargas could feature in today’s clash against Betis, coached by Chilean Manuel Pellegrini.
This will be Atletico’s second meeting with Betis this season, with a LaLiga fixture at the Metropolitano scheduled for the weekend.
Historically, Atletico have won 75 of the 142 encounters between the clubs, with 33 draws and 34 defeats.
Their last trip to Betis in October ended in a 2-0 win, with goals from Giuliano Simeone and Álex Sorloth.
Atletico also progressed past Betis in the Copa del Rey during the 2012/13 season, winning 3-1 on aggregate.
Lookman is expected to be in the mix for today’s high-profile semi-final at La Cartuja.
