Diego Simeone has thrown his full support behind Ademola Lookman ahead of Sunday’s Madrid derby, describing the Nigeria international as indispensable to Atlético Madrid’s plans against Real Madrid despite a modest start to the season.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Simeone said Lookman possesses a profile the squad does not often have and highlighted his ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations near the edge of the box. “Ademola Lookman is a player I care about deeply. He has a style of play that we don’t currently have on the roster. To me, he’s the most dangerous player in one-on-one situations near the edge of the box,” Simeone said.

Lookman has scored once in seven appearances this season and has gone four consecutive matches without finding the net, but Simeone insisted his contribution remains vital regardless of minutes. “We need him, whether it’s 60, 70 minutes or whatever he plays. He has done us very well since he arrived and although his start to the season is not what he would have wanted, we need him,” he added.

The Atlético manager’s comments came as he also confirmed that Julián Álvarez would be available for selection after injury, but indicated the Argentina forward might begin on the bench. Simeone’s public backing of Lookman served both as a vote of confidence and a tactical signal that the Nigerian remains a key outlet for breaking down compact defences in a high-stakes derby.