Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has revealed why Ademola Lookman was not included in the starting lineup for his side’s 4-1 victory over Club Brugge in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 playoff on Tuesday night.
Lookman was introduced from the bench and made an immediate impact, providing an assist as Atletico progressed to the last-16 with a 7-4 aggregate win over the Belgian side.
Speaking in his post-match interview, Simeone explained that the decision to leave Lookman out of the starting XI was purely tactical, citing the impressive form of striker Alexander Sørloth. The Argentine said, as quoted by Eldesmarque, “He [Lookman] didn’t play [start] because Sorloth played.”
Explaining further, Simeone added, “He [Lookman] will improve that [defensive ability] with time; his characteristics are purely offensive.
“Julián was going to work with the team because he knows us better. There are no big names.
“There are players. The game lasts 90 minutes. That is when we saw Griezmann come on in his thirties.”