Lookman might have saved Nigerian football, according to Super Eagles legend Oliseh

Ademola Lookman’s move to Atletico Madrid has sparked huge reactions, but few statements have carried as much weight as the words of Super Eagles legend Sunday Oliseh.

The former Nigeria captain and coach believes the transfer goes beyond club football, calling it a moment that could reshape the future of the Nigerian game.

Reacting to the transfer, Oliseh did not hold back in his assessment, saying, “Ademola Lookman's transfer (to Atletico Madrid) might just have saved Nigerian football.” His comment reflects growing concern over top Nigerian players opting for less competitive leagues at key stages of their careers.

Lookman’s decision to join Atletico Madrid, one of Europe’s elite clubs, has been widely seen as a powerful statement about ambition and standards.

Atletico officially unveiled the 28-year-old on Monday, February 2, after completing a €40 million deal with Atalanta. Lookman signed a four-and-a-half-year contract that will keep him at the Metropolitano until 2030.

Pulse Sports reported that he turned down a move to the Turkish Super Lig, where he could have joined fellow Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu, despite Turkish clubs matching Atalanta’s asking price.

For Oliseh and many observers, choosing La Liga over a less competitive environment sends the right signal to the next generation of Nigerian footballers.

Atletico Madrid wasted little time in making the signing official, keen to have Lookman available for upcoming fixtures.

In their announcement, the club described him as a versatile and dynamic attacker capable of playing as a second striker or on either wing, praising his pace and dribbling ability. He is expected to make his debut in the midweek Copa del Rey clash against Real Betis.

Diego Simeone’s side currently sit nine points behind Barcelona and eight adrift of Real Madrid, and Lookman arrives with expectations of adding cutting edge and goals to close that gap.

Comparisons have already been drawn with La Liga’s biggest stars, including Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé. For Nigeria, Oliseh’s message is clear: seeing a Super Eagles star thrive at this level restores belief, visibility, and pride in Nigerian football on the biggest stage.