Former Nigerian international goalkeeper Emmanuel Babayaro has provided a detailed perspective on why Atletico Madrid’s Ademola Lookman struggled to reach his full potential during his various stints in English football. Since completing a high-profile move from Atalanta to the Spanish capital in January, the 28-year-old forward has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, establishing himself as a vital component of the LaLiga giants’ offensive unit.
Lookman’s impact in Spain has been immediate and statistically significant, with the attacker already tallying four goals and two assists during the opening months of 2026. This sudden transition from a peripheral figure in the United Kingdom to a standout performer in Southern Europe has sparked discussions regarding the tactical compatibility of different European leagues.
Reflecting on the forward’s career trajectory during an appearance on the ATHLST podcast, Babayaro suggested that the structural demands of the English game may have been at odds with Lookman’s natural playing style.
“When you look at how Lookman did not perform in England, but went on to work wonders in Italy and Spain, why did he never really fit in the UK? Lookman likes to play with ease and style. He likes to play without too much pressure. But in England, you’ve microseconds before something happens and the pressure is on you to release the ball,” Babayaro stated.
The forward’s time in the Premier League included spells with Everton, Leicester City, and Fulham, where he often showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to maintain the consistent elite-level output he has recently displayed. Babayaro’s analysis highlights the contrast between the high-intensity, physical pressing of the English top flight and the more measured, technical approach of LaLiga and Serie A—environments where Lookman appears to have found the necessary space to flourish.
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