Diego Simeone’s faith in Ademola Lookman appears to be wavering after the Atlético Madrid coach, who had publicly backed the Nigerian to rediscover his best form, left him on the bench throughout their defeat to Barcelona despite having another substitution available.

Simeone had previously urged the forward not to become frustrated by his dip in form, insisting that hard work and belief would help him rediscover his confidence.

“I don’t want him to get frustrated because he’s not going through his best moment. This is work, this is believing in what you do,” the Argentine said.

But his decision to overlook Lookman in the Barcelona encounter has raised questions about whether that confidence is beginning to diminish.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Simeone made only four substitutions despite Atlético chasing the game, leaving the Nigerian unused even with an additional change available.

The coach kept Julian Alvarez on the pitch for the entire match despite the jeers directed at the forward, while Alexander Sørloth, David Hancko, Johnny Cardoso and Jonathan David were introduced in three separate phases.

David came on in the 78th minute, but Lookman was not considered for the remaining minutes as Atlético sought a way back into the contest.

The decision represents a frustrating development for the Nigerian, who had featured in all 11 of Atlético’s LaLiga matches before the Barcelona game but managed just one goal, scored in their 3-1 victory over Sevilla in August.

He has also recorded one goal and one assist in four Champions League appearances this season.

However, despite the growing concerns over his playing time, Spanish newspaper Marca reports that Atlético have not lost faith in the 28-year-old.

“No one at Atlético Madrid has lost faith in Ademola Lookman.

“Both the coaching staff and the dressing room are united in their determination to help him rediscover his best form and, above all, regain his confidence and morale. Nobody doubts his ability, and his attitude has never been called into question,” the publication reported.

Some Atlético supporters have also rallied behind the Nigerian, with one fan suggesting that Simeone, rather than Lookman, should shoulder the blame for the team’s struggles.

“The thing is Lookman was great last season because he was new and hadn’t been coached by Simeone yet, similar situation with Kang in even all the players, you should only lose faith in Simeone not anyone,” Kensuke Qiang wrote.

Another supporter questioned why Lookman was not afforded the same patience as Alvarez, who has also endured difficult moments at the club.

“Julian wanted a new club a few months ago, started and played like shit. Why can’t Lookman get the same grace?” the fan queried.

Lookman is back in Nigeria for the international break and will hope to inspire the Super Eagles to victories in their crucial 2027 AFCON qualifiers double-header 2027 against Tanzania.