Lookman in line for Atletico debut as Copa del Rey quarterfinal tension builds

• Ademola Lookman has been named in Atletico Madrid’s squad for their Copa del Rey quarterfinal clash with Real Betis.
• The Super Eagles winger joined Atletico from Atalanta in a €40 million deal earlier this week.
• Diego Simeone could hand him his debut either from the start or off the bench in Seville.

Ademola Lookman could make his first appearance in Atletico Madrid colours on Thursday night after being named in Diego Simeone’s 22-man squad for the club’s Copa del Rey quarterfinal against Real Betis, a high-stakes tie that arrives just days after the Nigerian winger sealed a big-money move to Spain.

The 28-year-old completed a €40 million transfer from Atalanta earlier this week, and his immediate inclusion in the matchday squad has already stirred excitement among Atletico fans eager to see how quickly he can adapt to Simeone’s demanding, high-intensity system.

With knockout football leaving little room for error, Lookman’s potential debut adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already tense encounter at the Estadio Benito Villamarín.

A new weapon for Simeone’s attack

For Simeone, Lookman’s arrival is about more than just adding another attacking option. Atletico have, at times this season, struggled to break down compact and disciplined defensive blocks, particularly in matches where space is limited and patience is tested.

Lookman’s pace, direct running, and comfort in one-on-one situations give the Argentine coach a different profile of winger, one capable of unsettling defences and creating chances in tight areas.

Read also: Ademola Lookman Makes Atalanta Return After Transfer Request Fallout

His recent form also strengthens the case for an early debut. The former Atalanta forward arrives in Madrid fresh from a standout AFCON 2025 campaign, where he consistently delivered in high-pressure moments and reinforced his reputation as a player who thrives on big stages.

That confidence, combined with the hunger to justify his price tag and quickly win over the Metropolitano faithful, positions him as one of the most compelling figures in this quarterfinal tie.

High stakes in Seville

The matchup itself is finely balanced. Atletico travel to Seville, facing a Real Betis side known for its organization and resilience at home, making this a contest likely to be decided by fine margins rather than free-flowing football.

In such games, moments of individual quality often tilt the outcome, and Lookman’s ability to stretch defences, attack space, and inject urgency could prove decisive whether he starts or comes off the bench.

Beyond the immediate result, the night could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Lookman’s career, as he steps into Spanish football under one of Europe’s most tactically demanding coaches. Whether through a goal, an assist, or simply the spark he brings to Atletico’s attack, attention will be firmly fixed on the Super Eagles star as he edges closer to his debut in red and white.