Lookman’s LaLiga Launch: Simeone’s new 'cheat code' set for Metropolitano debut​ - What to expect

Just days after silencing Benito Villamarin with a clinical debut goal and assist in a 5-0 Copa del Rey demolition, Ademola Lookman is ready to introduce himself to the LaLiga faithful. 

This Sunday, the Riyadh Air Metropolitano prepares for a repeat performance as Atletico Madrid hosts Real Betis.

For Diego Simeone, this isn't just another fixture; it’s about protecting a fortress. "El Cholo" has famously never lost a home game against Los Verdiblancos in his 13-year tenure. With Lookman now in the mix, that record looks safer than a bank vault.

The 2024 African Footballer of the Year didn't just walk into the starting XI; he kicked the door down. After his €40m move from Atalanta, Lookman needed only 37 minutes to open his Atleti account.

“I’m very, very happy, very proud to make my debut... The team and the staff and everybody has welcomed me very nicely. It has made it easy for me to settle in,” Lookman said after the game.

Simeone is already seeing the Nigerian international as a tactical wildcard. Unlike the traditional gritty Atleti winger, Lookman offers a ‘cheat code’ in 1-on-1 situations that has the Argentine coach purring.

“He has different qualities than the players we have and that will make us better. He is a specialist in one-on-one duels... that allows us to play with different positions,” Simeone stated.

Manuel Pellegrini’s men are likely still having nightmares about Thursday's cup exit, and the history books offer little comfort.

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If you’ve checked Atletico’s social media lately, you’d be forgiven for thinking the club had relocated to Lagos. 

The Lookman effect has triggered a massive wave of Nigerian support, with fans flooding the comments with eagle emojis and faster than Atleti can post a match graphic.

Expect the club’s digital team to lean heavily into this; they have already, with animated photos of their new man. 

If Lookman so much as ties his laces on Sunday, expect a 4K slow-motion reel aimed directly at the heart of the Super Eagles' fanbase.

Betis will be desperate for revenge, but facing an Atleti side that has won 10 straight LaLiga games at the Metropolitano is a tall order. 

With Antoine Griezmann already striking up a telepathic bond with the new man, the Riyadh Air Metropolitano is expecting fireworks.

“We have to enjoy these new players and hope that they help us like they did tonight,”Antoine Griezmann added.