By Ashiru Taofeek Adewale
Super Eagles legend and former captain Sunday Oliseh believes Ademola Lookman’s transfer to Atletico Madrid could prove to be a defining moment for Nigerian football, describing it as a move that helps steer the game away from mediocrity.
Lookman’s switch to the Spanish giants has generated widespread reaction, but Oliseh’s comments have carried particular weight given growing concerns about top Nigerian players choosing less competitive leagues at crucial stages of their careers.
Reacting to the transfer, the former Nigeria captain and head coach was unequivocal in his assessment.
“Ademola Lookman’s transfer (to Atletico Madrid) might just have saved Nigerian football,” Oliseh said.
The statement reflects a broader belief that Lookman’s decision sends a strong message about ambition, standards, and long-term development at the highest level of the game.
Atletico Madrid officially unveiled the 28-year-old on Monday, February 2, after completing a €40 million move from Atalanta. The Super Eagles forward signed a four-and-a-half-year contract, keeping him at the Metropolitano until 2030.
Lookman turned down a move to the Turkish Super Lig, where he could have joined fellow Nigerian internationals Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu, despite Turkish clubs matching Atalanta’s valuation. His decision to opt for La Liga instead has been widely praised as a statement of intent.
For Oliseh and many observers, choosing one of Europe’s elite leagues over a less competitive environment sets the right example for the next generation of Nigerian footballers.
Atletico wasted no time in making the signing official, eager to integrate Lookman into Diego Simeone’s squad ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.
In their announcement, the club described him as a versatile and dynamic attacker, capable of operating as a second striker or on either wing, while highlighting his pace and dribbling ability.
Lookman is expected to make his debut in Atletico’s midweek Copa del Rey clash against Real Betis.
Simeone’s side currently sit nine points behind Barcelona and eight adrift of Real Madrid, and Lookman arrives with expectations of providing the cutting edge and goals needed to close the gap.
Early comparisons have already been drawn with La Liga’s brightest attacking talents, including Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe.
For Nigerian football, however, Oliseh’s message is unmistakable: seeing a Super Eagles star competing and thriving at the very top of European football restores belief, visibility, and pride on the biggest stage.
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