Atletico Madrid have reportedly reached out to the Nigeria Football Federation to express their dissatisfaction over the heavy workload placed on star forward Ademola Lookman during the recent international break. The Spanish giants, who secured the winger for a €35 million fee following his standout performance at the 2025 AFCON, are growing increasingly protective of their investment as the European season enters a critical phase.
Since joining the club, Lookman has been under a strict fitness management program directed by head coach Diego Simeone. Interestingly, the 28-year-old is yet to finish a full ninety minutes for the Spanish side, with his most significant appearance being a 73-minute stint during a Copa del Rey win against Barcelona. This cautious approach at the club level stands in sharp contrast to his recent usage with the Super Eagles.
During the latest round of international friendlies, Lookman was pushed to his limits, playing 89 minutes in the clash against Iran and the entire duration of the match against Jordan. Reports suggest that the Atletico hierarchy is particularly frustrated that such high mileage was demanded in non-competitive fixtures, especially when these games are typically seen as an opportunity for squad rotation.
The Spanish outfit is currently navigating a treacherous run of fixtures and cannot afford to lose their key attacking threat to fatigue or muscle injuries. With high-stakes matches against the likes of Sevilla, Real Sociedad, and Athletic Club on the horizon, alongside repeated encounters with Barcelona, Simeone is already dealing with a squad thinned by chronic injury problems.
Atletico’s primary concern is that the lack of rest during the international window could lead to a mid-season burnout for Lookman. As the race for domestic and continental honors heats up, the club expects a more collaborative approach to player welfare to ensure their top stars remain available for the heavy schedule ahead.
