Atlético Madrid Raises Alarm Over Lookman’s Heavy Use in International Friendlies

Atlético Madrid has raised concerns over the handling of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman during the recent FIFA international window, questioning the decision-making of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The Madrid-based club are understood to be dissatisfied with Lookman’s extensive involvement in Nigeria’s friendly fixtures, citing the physical demands placed on the player despite the matches carrying limited competitive significance.

Sources close to the club indicate that Atlético’s technical and medical departments were particularly concerned about the cumulative fatigue risk, especially at a crucial stage of the European season when squad management and player fitness are paramount.

Lookman, who has been a key attacking asset for both club and country, featured prominently during the international break, raising concerns about workload management and injury prevention protocols.

Atlético Madrid’s stance reflects a broader tension between clubs and national teams regarding player usage in non-competitive fixtures, with clubs increasingly advocating stricter load management to safeguard their investments.