Oliseh Hails Lookman’s Choice of Atletico Madrid Over Turkey
Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has hailed Ademola Lookman’s transfer to Atletico Madrid, describing it as a landmark moment that could reshape Nigerian football.
Speaking on his podcast Global Football Insight, Oliseh said the move to one of Europe’s elite clubs sends a powerful message to young Nigerian players.
‘Ademola Lookman transfer might just have saved Nigerian football,’ Oliseh declared. ‘Atletico Madrid play every year in the UEFA Champions League, the Spanish La Liga pays well, if you play in a top club, you become big.’
Oliseh explained that Nigerian football has suffered because many of its players settle for mid-tier European clubs, which affects the quality of the Super Eagles.
He stressed that Lookman’s choice to join Atletico, despite receiving a more lucrative offer from Turkish giants Fenerbahce, shows ambition and sets a new benchmark.
‘Young players in Nigeria can now hope and dream of playing for such a big team,’ he said, adding that Lookman’s decision to prioritize footballing growth over financial gain was crucial.
The former Nigeria captain emphasized that Atletico Madrid’s consistent presence in the Champions League and their reputation in La Liga will elevate Lookman’s profile and inspire others.
‘If you play in a top club, you become big, and that rubs off on the national team,’ Oliseh noted.
Oliseh concluded by urging Nigerian youngsters to follow Lookman’s example: ‘This is the kind of transfer that changes the mentality. It shows that Nigerian players can aim for the very top.’
