According to a report by Daily Post on Tuesday November 3, 2026, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has sent a message of support to Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, urging him not to become frustrated despite his difficult start to the 2026/27 season.

The Argentine manager has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles star, insisting that he remains an important player for the Spanish club despite struggling to reproduce the impressive form he showed after arriving from Atalanta.

Lookman joined Atletico Madrid during the winter transfer window last season and made an immediate impact, recording nine goals and four assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.

However, the Nigerian international has found goals harder to come by this campaign, managing just two goals in 14 appearances.

His dip in form has raised questions about his performances, but Simeone has made it clear that he has not lost faith in the former Atalanta attacker.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday ahead of Atletico Madrid's Champions League encounter with Bayern Munich, Simeone acknowledged that Lookman's season had not started as expected.

The Atletico boss also referenced the difficult periods experienced by teammates Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann, explaining that both players eventually recovered their form.

According to Simeone, Lookman must remain patient, continue working hard and believe in his abilities rather than allow his current struggles to affect his confidence.

"Well, I don't know if you spoke with him personally, if he's playing somewhere he doesn't want to be.

"This is work, this is believing in what you do," Simeone said in quotes relayed by Futbol Fantasy.

The Atletico manager also highlighted Lookman's importance to his attacking plans, particularly his ability to take on defenders and create dangerous situations in the final third.

Simeone believes the Nigerian's individual qualities remain valuable to the team and is confident that his contributions will eventually translate into more goals and assists.

Meanwhile, Lookman is also seeking to establish himself as a regular starter in Atletico Madrid's Champions League campaign.

Despite registering two goal involvements in the competition, the Nigerian has yet to start a Champions League fixture this season.

He has so far featured as a substitute against Liverpool, Manchester United and Stuttgart.

Simeone's public backing could provide Lookman with an important confidence boost as he attempts to rediscover his best form and secure a more prominent role in the Atletico team.

The Super Eagles forward will now hope to repay his manager's trust with improved performances as Atletico continue their Champions League campaign.