He's perfect for Simeone — Deeney backs Lookman to shine at Atletico

Lookman has enjoyed an impressive start since his winter transfer to the Spanish capital, contributing three goals and two assists in his first five matches for the club.

His immediate impact has drawn praise, with Deeney suggesting the timing and environment are ideal for the player's development.

Speaking on CBS, Deeney argued that while Lookman possesses natural flair, he benefits most from a structured system that provides clear instructions.

"I think there's a perfect moment in time for every footballer," Deeney said. "He is a kind of guy, yes, he has spark, but he needs structure."

Deeney identified Atlético as the ideal club for Lookman, emphasising the tactical clarity demanded by manager Diego Simeone.

"He needs to know who, what, and where. He gets that at Atletico," he explained.

"You know what you're doing under Diego Simeone, how it's supposed to be, and then you're supposed to go and show what you have. I think he's a perfect fit for both him and the team."

Reflecting on Lookman's time in the Premier League with Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City, Deeney felt the winger never found the stability required to consistently perform.

The 37-year-old pundit believes a lack of trust, particularly during his loan spell at Craven Cottage, hindered the Nigerian international's progress.

"In England, he never got the trust when he was at Fulham," Deeney stated. "They never gave him a sure position. [It wasn't] 'Don't worry if you make a mistake, we will give you the ball again.'"

Deeney pointed to a specific incident during Lookman's time at Fulham—a failed "Panenka" penalty attempt against West Ham in November 2020—as a turning point that saw him fall out of favour.

"I remember him, he tried to do the Panenka, he missed it, and he was gone," Deeney recalled during his analysis of a UEFA Champions League match.

"The talent was there, and I also think Atalanta trusted him to be the bright spark," he added.