Football Legend Questions Lookman's Ambition After Atletico Madrid Transfer
A prominent African football analyst has sparked controversy by criticizing Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman's recent transfer to Spanish giants Atletico Madrid during the January transfer window. The Nigerian international completed his move to Los Rojiblancos on Monday, February 2, 2026, immediately making his presence felt with a spectacular debut performance.
Immediate Impact in Madrid Colors
Lookman wasted no time silencing his critics, delivering a man-of-the-match performance in Atletico Madrid's emphatic 5-0 demolition of Real Betis in the Copa del Rey quarter-final on Thursday, February 5. The 28-year-old winger marked his debut with a stunning first-half goal and provided a crucial assist, helping his new club secure a place in the competition's semi-finals.
With this remarkable debut, Lookman achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Atletico Madrid debutant to score in a competitive match since the 2013/14 season. His immediate impact has generated considerable excitement among the club's supporters and demonstrated his readiness to compete at the highest level of European football.
Gaye's Controversial Assessment
African football expert Mamadou Gaye has publicly questioned Lookman's decision to join Atletico Madrid, suggesting the move reflects a lack of ambition from the 2024 CAF Player of the Year. In his critical assessment, Gaye argued that the Super Eagles star deserves a transfer to what he considers Europe's elite clubs, specifically mentioning Barcelona, Juventus, and Real Madrid as more appropriate destinations.
"I am wondering why Lookman didn't move to Real Madrid and Barcelona, what is he doing with Atletico Madrid?" Gaye questioned. "What have they won? Have they won the Champions League? I have concluded that he is not ambitious."
The analyst further elaborated his position by stating: "When you join a club, it's all about winning in Europe, not just finishing in the middle of the table every year. Real Madrid and Barcelona are the top two clubs; all the others are just filling in the spots, like Atlético Madrid."
Nigerian Journalist Defends Lookman's Decision
Nigerian sports journalist Bayo Adegboyega has strongly disagreed with Mamadou Gaye's assessment, defending Lookman's career choices and ambition. In an exclusive comment, Adegboyega emphasized that the Super Eagles winger made the perfect decision by choosing Atletico Madrid over other options, including Turkish giants Galatasaray.
"We are all entitled to our opinion but Gaye misfired when he said Ademola Lookman is not ambitious," Adegboyega stated. "The Super Eagles winger remains one of the most outstanding players in recent times."
The journalist pointed to Lookman's impressive track record as evidence of his quality and ambition:
- Scoring three goals and providing four assists during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco
- 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
Lookman's Recent Career Trajectory
Lookman's transfer to Atletico Madrid marks a significant step in his professional journey, ending his relationship with Italian club Atalanta after more than 18 months of attempting to secure a move away. The Nigerian international had established himself as a key player for Atalanta, with his performances attracting interest from several top European clubs.
Atalanta president Luca Percassi has shared his thoughts on Lookman's departure, acknowledging the player's contributions to the club while wishing him success in his new challenge with the Spanish La Liga giants. The transfer represents Lookman's opportunity to test himself in one of Europe's most competitive leagues and continue his development at the highest level.
As the debate continues regarding Lookman's career choices, his immediate success at Atletico Madrid suggests the Nigerian star has made a calculated decision that could propel his career to even greater heights in Spanish football.
