Simeone talks about Lookman’s substitution at half-time

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone says he had to manage playing time and effort when he made substitutions during Saturday’s 1-0 win over Espanyol. This was after Ademola Lookman came off at half-time.

Lookman started the La Liga match just days after he scored in Atlético’s 2-0 Champions League win against Manchester United. He was replaced by Julián Álvarez at the break.

Simeone said, “We were looking to manage the minutes, the effort; we needed legs.”

The Nigerian forward could not finish the match as Simeone changed his strategy against a tough Espanyol defence. Atlético eventually won the match with a late goal.

Simeone’s comments showed the importance of managing players’ minutes and energy. Atlético is trying to balance their domestic league with European matches. Lookman will be eager to continue his good form in the Champions League in upcoming games.