'Perfect career decision' - Ex-Super Eagles star hails Lookman’s Atletico Madrid switch

Former Nigerian international Godwin Okpara has thrown his support behind Ademola Lookman’s move to Atletico Madrid, describing the transfer as the ideal step forward in the Super Eagles winger’s career.

Lookman completed a January transfer from Italian side Atalanta to the Spanish giants and made his La Liga debut in Sunday’s clash against Real Betis. While the move attracted widespread attention, Okpara believed choosing Atletico Madrid over interest from Turkish club Fenerbahce was a straightforward decision.

Speaking to Footy Africa, the former defender highlighted the importance of exposure and competitive level in shaping a player’s career.

“When you compare Fenerbahçe and Atletico Madrid, the choice is very clear. Exposure is where you grow, where the whole world can see you, and that is La Liga. This is the right league for Lookman,” Okpara said.

Okpara acknowledged the quality of the Turkish Super Lig but stressed that Spain’s top flight offers a much larger global audience and stronger competitive platform for a player at Lookman’s stage of development.

“It’s not that the Turkish league is bad. But if you want visibility, if you want people around the world watching you every week, La Liga gives you that. No one would turn down Atletico Madrid for Fenerbahçe,” he added.

The former Nigerian international also expressed pride in Lookman’s achievement, noting that the move reflects positively on Nigerian football.

“I’m very happy for him. It’s the right choice for his career, and it’s good for our nation,” Okpara said.