Lookman: I’m Ready to Make Atletico Madrid Debut Against Real Betis on Thursday

Ademola Lookman is set to make his first appearance for Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey quarterfinal clash away at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, where Diego Simeone’s side will face Real Betis, the former club of Nigeria’s George Finidi.

The Nigerian forward, unveiled on Tuesday afternoon after morning training, posed with his new number 22 shirt and expressed his delight at joining the Spanish giants.

‘I’m very happy, to be honest, it’s a huge club, a blessing for me, very proud,’ he said.

Lookman revealed that his first hours with the squad have been encouraging.

‘I’ve already been with my teammates, it’s been fantastic, they’ve given me a great welcome, looking forward to sharing more training,’ he explained.

Representing Nigeria at such a level, he added, is both an honor and a responsibility: ‘It’s fantastic, a great responsibility, but also a pleasure to wear these colors.’

The former Atalanta star admitted he sacrificed financially to make the move, but insisted it was worth it.

‘I’m very happy, that’s why I came, it’s also a pleasure to play in this league.’

He also spoke about his conversation with Simeone before signing: ‘I spoke to him before I came, it was a good conversation with the person you’re going to live with every day.’

On what he brings to Atletico, Lookman was clear: ‘My game is very dynamic, it’s based on speed and I’ll try to make the difference in the critical moments. It’s what I like. The most important thing is to help the team.’

Asked about the possibility of featuring against Betis, he added: ‘If they give me the chance, I’ll be ready.’

Lookman also reflected on his unique journey as the first English-born player to compete in all four of Europe’s major leagues. ‘It has been fantastic for my learning, I have been able to develop as a player, learn different styles and it is part of my baggage,’ he said.