Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has explained his decision to deploy Ademola Lookman as a central striker during the club’s opening La Liga victory over Malaga.
The Super Eagles forward was asked to operate as a No. 9 as Atletico began their 2026/27 campaign with a 2-0 win, with Simeone forced to adjust his attacking options because of absences in his squad.
Julian Alvarez was not included in the matchday squad, while Alexander Sorloth missed the game through injury. The situation left Simeone without two of his main options for the central attacking position.
Lookman was consequently handed the responsibility of leading the attack.
The Nigerian has primarily been known for his work from wider attacking positions, but his pace, movement and ability to create chances have given Simeone another option as he looks to find the right balance in his new-look attack.
Simeone described the decision as a search for greater creativity while admitting that Atletico currently need to improve their options in the position.
The Argentine coach also suggested that the situation could continue to influence how Lookman is used, particularly while the club deals with its current shortage of available forwards.
Lookman had already established himself as an important attacking player since joining Atletico Madrid, and his versatility could now make him even more valuable to Simeone.
The Nigeria international enjoyed an impressive start to life in Madrid after arriving from Atalanta, contributing nine goals and four assists during his first four months with the Spanish club.
His ability to play across the frontline means Simeone can move him between the wing and central areas depending on the opposition and the players available.
For now, however, Lookman’s role as a No. 9 appears to be largely dictated by Atletico’s current circumstances rather than a permanent positional change.
With Alvarez expected to return to contention and Sorloth recovering from injury, Simeone will eventually have more options to choose from. Until then, Lookman’s flexibility could prove crucial as Atletico attempt to maintain their momentum at the start of the new campaign.
The tactical experiment could also provide another opportunity to demonstrate that his attacking qualities extend well beyond his traditional role on the wing.
