Lookman set to be benched for Madrid derby

Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone is reportedly set to bench Ademola Lookman in this weekend's LALIGA clash against Rayo Vallecano despite the Nigerian's incredible start to life as a Rojiblanco. 

The 27-year-old joined Atleti from Atalanta on deadline day, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract after La Dea accepted the €40 million offer for his services.

Lookman has had a brilliant start to life in his new club, starting the first three matches he was available for and registering four goal contributions in three matches. However, he is set to be benched in the all-Madrid clash against Rayo Vallecano. 

According to the Spanish publication Diario AS, Lookman will not start in the league clash against Los Franjirrojos. Simeone tends to test his line-ups for coming matches in training; hence, journalists can deduce what to expect.

Per the report, Simeone tried out a well-rotated line-up in training, replacing everyone who played against Barcelona on Thursday except the fullbacks; hence, Lookman is expected to be rested. 

With Atletico 13 points behind league leaders Barcelona, Simeone's apparent decision is to deprioritise LALIGA and focus on the Copa del Rey and Champions League. 

They face Club Brugge in the Champions League playoffs next midweek, and Lookman will hope to have better fortune than when he faced the Belgian side in the knockout stage last season.