Okpara: Lookman’s Atletico Madrid Move Good for Nigerian Football
Former Nigerian international Godwin Okpara has backed Ademola Lookman’s decision to join Atletico Madrid, describing it as the right move for his career and for Nigerian football.
Lookman completed his transfer from Atalanta during the January window and made his La Liga debut against Real Betis.
Speaking to Footy Africa, Okpara praised the winger’s choice, arguing that the exposure and global reach of Spain’s top division far outweigh what he would have experienced had he opted for Fenerbahçe in Turkey.
‘Just look at it when you look at Fenerbahçe, and look at Atletico Madrid. Even a blind person would not choose Fenerbahçe,’ Okpara said.
‘It’s a good league, but exposure is where you want to improve your game, where the whole world will see you. This is the right league for him to go to.’
He added that La Liga’s global audience will give Lookman the platform to showcase his talent at the highest level, while also benefiting Nigerian football.
‘They know themselves that Lookman will not come. They just tried, and at the end of the day, he wouldn’t take them. It’s a gamble thing. I’m very happy for him. And it’s good for our nation,’ Okpara concluded.
