African Football Legend Criticizes Ademola Lookman's Atletico Madrid Transfer
A prominent African football analyst has publicly criticized Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman for his recent transfer to Spanish club Atletico Madrid during the January transfer window. The Nigerian international completed his move on Monday, February 2, 2026, sparking immediate controversy within football circles.
Immediate Impact on the Pitch
Despite the criticism, Lookman wasted no time in proving his worth to his new club. The 28-year-old winger made an emphatic debut just three days after his transfer, playing a crucial role in Atletico Madrid's commanding 5-0 victory over Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarterfinal on Thursday, February 5.
Lookman marked his debut with a stunning first-half goal and provided an assist, helping his new team secure a place in the competition's semifinals. This performance made him the first Atletico Madrid debutant to score in a competitive match since the 2013/14 season, demonstrating his immediate value to manager Diego Simeone's squad.
Mamadou Gaye's Controversial Comments
African football expert Mamadou Gaye has strongly questioned Lookman's decision to join Atletico Madrid from Italian club Atalanta. Gaye argued that the 2024 CAF Player of the Year deserves a move to what he considers Europe's elite clubs, specifically mentioning Barcelona, Juventus, or Real Madrid as more appropriate destinations.
"I am wondering why Lookman didn't choose Real Madrid and Barcelona," Gaye stated. "What is he doing with Atletico Madrid? What have they won? Have they won the Champions League? I have concluded that he is not ambitious."
The analyst further elaborated on his position, emphasizing that top players should prioritize winning European trophies rather than settling for clubs that consistently finish in middle-table positions. "When you join a club, it's all about winning in Europe, not just finishing in the middle of the table every year," Gaye added. "Real Madrid and Barcelona are the top two clubs; all the others are just filling in the spots, like Atlético Madrid."
Defending Lookman's Decision
Nigerian sports journalist Bayo Adegboyega has strongly disagreed with Mamadou Gaye's assessment of Lookman's career move. Adegboyega pointed to Lookman's impressive track record as evidence of his ambition and quality as a player.
"We are all entitled to our opinion but Gaye misfired when he said Ademola Lookman is not ambitious," Adegboyega countered. "The Super Eagles winger remains one of the most outstanding players in recent times."
The journalist highlighted several key achievements that demonstrate Lookman's credentials:
- Exceptional performance during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he scored three goals and provided four assists
- Winning the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League with Atalanta
- Helping Atalanta secure third place in the 2024/25 Serie A season
- Immediate impact with a goal on his Atletico Madrid debut
Background of the Transfer
Lookman's move to Atletico Madrid comes after more than 18 months of attempts to leave Atalanta. The Nigerian international had been seeking a new challenge, and his transfer to the Spanish capital represents a significant step in his professional career.
Atalanta president Luca Percassi has shared his thoughts on Lookman's departure, acknowledging the player's contributions to the Italian club while recognizing his desire for a new opportunity in Spain's La Liga.
The debate surrounding Lookman's transfer highlights the ongoing discussion about career choices for African football stars and what constitutes an ambitious move in European football. While some analysts question whether Atletico Madrid represents the pinnacle of club football, others point to the player's immediate success and proven track record as evidence of a well-considered career decision.
