Lookman Equals Osimhen’s Influence — Peseiro Backs Super Eagles Star’s Rise
Former Nigeria coach José Peseiro has declared that Ademola Lookman is now matching the impact of Victor Osimhen for the Super Eagles and has the attributes to become a major figure at Atlético Madrid.
Peseiro made the remarks in an interview with Marca, pointing out that while Osimhen has long been seen as Nigeria’s standout player, Lookman’s recent performances, both for club and country, have put him on an equal footing.
“Osimhen was the star, but Lookman has not been behind him. In fact, he has scored more goals,” the Portuguese coach said, underlining Lookman’s hat‑trick in the UEFA Europa League final for Atalanta as one example of his growing influence.
Lookman has been a key figure for the Super Eagles at consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, contributing 11 goals and assists in 13 games as Nigeria secured silver and bronze medals. Peseiro insisted the winger’s importance to the squad cannot be underestimated.
Addressing suggestions that Lookman can be difficult to manage, Peseiro dismissed such claims, describing him as grounded and receptive when given freedom on the pitch. According to him, that freedom has allowed the forward to flourish even under pressure.
“Lookman does not act like a star, he is very easy to manage,” Peseiro said. He added that the quality Lookman showed soon after joining Atlético Madrid speaks volumes about his readiness to contribute at the highest levels of European football.
The coach also highlighted the strategic importance of Lookman’s recent transfer, saying it represents a key step in his career and a chance to prove doubters wrong. For Peseiro, Lookman has the composure and creativity to have a lasting impact if given time to settle.
Peseiro also reflected on Lookman’s earlier struggles in England’s youth setup, where he felt overlooked despite success at the U‑20 World Cup in 2017. That disappointment, he said, helped fuel Lookman’s desire to succeed at the senior level.
Now 28 and approaching his prime, Peseiro believes Lookman has matured into a more complete player. He’s refined his defensive discipline and physicality while maintaining his attacking instincts, a development Peseiro attributes to the demanding environments of European club football.
The former coach feels Lookman is most potent when playing centrally behind the striker, where he can exploit space, create chances, and influence games with either goals or assists. On the wing, he remains a threat, but Peseiro believes inside positions truly unlock his potential.
