Ademola Lookman has suffered a setback at Atlético Madrid after head coach Diego Simeone left the Nigerian forward on the bench throughout the club’s defeat to Barcelona, despite having another substitution available.

The decision has raised questions about Lookman’s standing in the team, particularly after Simeone had previously expressed confidence in the 28-year-old’s ability to recover his form.

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The Argentine coach had urged the forward not to become frustrated by his recent struggles, insisting that commitment and belief would help him regain confidence.

“I don’t want him to get frustrated because he’s not going through his best moment. This is work, this is believing in what you do,” Simeone had said.

However, according to Spanish newspaper Sport, Simeone made only four substitutions during the Barcelona encounter, leaving Lookman unused as Atlético searched for a way back into the match.

The coach kept Julian Alvarez on the pitch for the entire game despite jeers directed at the forward, while Alexander Sørloth, David Hancko, Johnny Cardoso and Jonathan David were introduced at different stages.

Jonathan David entered the match in the 78th minute, but Lookman was not called upon during the remaining period.

The omission is a frustrating development for the Nigerian, who had featured in all 11 of Atlético’s LaLiga matches before the Barcelona fixture but had scored only once, in the club’s 3-1 victory over Sevilla in August.

He has also registered one goal and one assist in four Champions League appearances this season.

Despite the questions surrounding his playing time, however, reports suggest that Atlético have not abandoned their support for the forward.

Spanish newspaper Marca reported that the coaching staff and players remain committed to helping Lookman rediscover his form and confidence.

“No one at Atlético Madrid has lost faith in Ademola Lookman,” the publication reported.

It added that his ability was not in doubt and that his attitude had never been questioned by the club.

Some Atlético supporters have also defended the Nigerian, with one fan arguing that Simeone should take greater responsibility for the team’s struggles rather than placing the blame on Lookman.

Another supporter questioned why Lookman was not receiving the same patience as Alvarez, who has also experienced difficult spells at the club.

Lookman has since returned to Nigeria for the international break and is expected to join the Super Eagles as they prepare for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

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The forward will hope to regain confidence and produce strong performances for Nigeria before returning to Spain, where he will seek to strengthen his position in Simeone’s plans.