Although Osimhen has long been regarded as Nigeria’s talisman, Peseiro said Lookman’s recent performances—particularly at the Africa Cup of Nations—have been equally decisive. He noted that while Osimhen has often been viewed as the headline act, Lookman’s goal contributions have matched, and in some cases surpassed, his teammate’s output.
The Portuguese tactician pointed to Lookman’s clinical displays at successive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, where the forward directly contributed 11 goals—six goals and five assists—in 13 appearances, helping Nigeria secure silver and bronze medals. At club level, Peseiro referenced Lookman’s hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final for Atalanta BC as further proof of his big-game temperament.
Peseiro, who handed Lookman consistent opportunities during his tenure with the Super Eagles, dismissed suggestions that the 28-year-old is difficult to manage. Instead, he described him as grounded, professional and responsive when entrusted with freedom on the pitch.
According to the former Nigeria coach, Lookman’s early impressions in Spain underline his readiness for the challenge at Atlético Madrid, though he urged patience as the player continues to adapt. He maintained that the winger’s composure under pressure and attacking boldness make him well-suited to thrive in a demanding environment.
The move to Atlético, Peseiro added, represents a pivotal moment in Lookman’s career—a step the player had long targeted as he sought to establish himself among Europe’s elite and silence critics from his earlier years in England.
Reflecting on Lookman’s journey, Peseiro revealed that discussions in 2022 helped lay the foundation for the forward’s resurgence. Before finding stability in Italy, Lookman endured unsettled spells at Everton FC, RB Leipzig, Fulham FC and Leicester City FC.
He also disclosed that Lookman had been deeply disappointed after falling out of favour with England’s youth national teams despite winning the 2017 FIFA Under-20 World Cup. That setback, Peseiro said, ultimately strengthened the player’s resolve and shaped his decision to fully commit to Nigeria at senior level.
Now approaching his peak years, Lookman has evolved into a more complete attacker, combining technical flair with improved defensive discipline and physical resilience. Peseiro credited the rigours of Italian football for accelerating his development, describing him as a forward who presses, defends and competes intensely in addition to his creative output.
In tactical terms, Peseiro believes Lookman is most effective operating centrally behind a main striker, where he can exploit pockets of space, drive at defenders and influence matches with goals or assists. While capable of unsettling opponents from wide areas, the coach insisted that Lookman’s decisiveness is most evident when he is positioned closer to goal.
With his confidence growing and his influence expanding at both club and international levels, Peseiro suggested that Lookman now stands alongside Osimhen as one of the Super Eagles’ defining figures—and potentially a cornerstone of Atlético Madrid’s future ambitions.