Why Diego Simeone Benched Ademola Lookman Against Club Brugge: UCL Tactical Breakdown

 

​In a move that left many Nigerian football fans and Atletico Madrid supporters scratching their heads, Diego Simeone opted to start Ademola Lookman on the bench during the decisive UEFA Champions League knockout playoff second leg against Club Brugge. Despite Lookman's historic start to life at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the Argentine "El Cholo" favored a different tactical setup to secure progression. Following the match, Simeone provided a detailed explanation, shedding light on the rigorous demands he places on his forwards beyond just finding the back of the net.

​The Shock Benching of the "History Maker"

​Ademola Lookman has been nothing short of a revelation since his €35 million move from Atalanta in January 2026. Heading into the second leg, Lookman had already matched a club record held by Luis Suárez for the best statistical start to an Atleti career, racking up seven goal involvements in his first seven games.

​His performance in the first leg against Club Brugge was particularly noteworthy, where he scored to help secure a 3-3 draw in Belgium. Given this "purple patch," his exclusion from the starting XI for the return leg was the major talking point before kickoff.

​Simeone’s Reasoning: Goals vs. Team Play

​Speaking to the press, Simeone was candid about his selection. While acknowledging Lookman's clinical edge, he emphasized that the Champions League requires a level of tactical discipline and defensive work that the Nigerian is still adapting to.

​“Lookman brings us goals, honestly, more goals than overall play right now,” Simeone remarked. “In a knockout game where we need to control the transitions and maintain a rigid defensive block, I chose players who currently understand our collective build-up and defensive triggers better.”

​Tactical Analysis: Why the Change?

​Simeone’s decision wasn’t necessarily a critique of Lookman’s talent, but rather a reflection of the "Simeone Way." For a forward to be a permanent fixture in a Simeone side, they must master three key areas:

1. ​Defensive Transition: Atleti’s system relies on the front two dropping deep to clog passing lanes. Simeone suggested that Lookman is still "learning the rhythm" of when to press and when to sit back.
2. ​Physicality in the Air: In the second leg, Simeone opted for Alexander Sørloth to partner Julián Álvarez. Sørloth’s height was a strategic choice to exploit Club Brugge's vulnerability to crosses—a plan that paid off when the Norwegian opened the scoring.
3. ​Experience in High-Stakes Moments: While Lookman is 28 and an Europa League hero, Simeone often leans on players who have spent years internalizing his specific tactical "manual" during high-pressure European nights.

​The Impact: Lookman as a "Game Changer"

​Despite not starting, Lookman’s influence on the tie remained undeniable. Introduced in the second half, he provided the energy and "one-on-one" ability that Simeone has previously praised.

​His appearance helped stretch the Brugge defense, eventually leading to an assist that helped seal the victory. By using Lookman as a substitute, Simeone essentially utilized him as a "tactical weapon" against tired legs—a role that Lookman excelled in, even if it wasn't the starting role he desired.

​What the Future Holds for Lookman at Atletico

​The "challenge" issued by Simeone is a common rite of passage for new signings at Atletico Madrid. Antoine Griezmann and even Julián Álvarez faced similar periods of adjustment where their defensive contributions were scrutinized more than their goals.

​Can Lookman Become an Untouchable?

​To become a guaranteed starter, Lookman will need to:

• ​Improve Build-up Play: Become more involved in the middle third rather than just waiting for chances in the box.
• ​Master the Press: Show the high-intensity defensive work rate that defines Simeone’s most successful strikers like Diego Costa or Griezmann.

​Simeone remains optimistic, noting that Lookman is "different from the players we have" and offers a unique "vision to attack" that will be crucial as the club progresses deeper into the tournament.

​Conclusion

​The benching of Ademola Lookman against Club Brugge was a classic Diego Simeone masterstroke—prioritizing tactical balance over individual form. While fans may want to see the Super Eagles star on the pitch for all 90 minutes, Simeone’s approach ensures that Lookman is being molded into a complete "Atleti player." With seven goal contributions already under his belt, it’s only a matter of time before Lookman’s "overall play" catches up to his elite finishing.