Former Super Eagles coach, Jo Bonfrere, has criticised Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone over his decision to substitute Ademola Lookman during their 1–0 defeat to Arsenal in Tuesday night’s UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Bonfrere says Lookman exit weakened Atletico’s attack
The 79-year-old, speaking to Complete Sports from his base in the Netherlands on Wednesday morning, argued that removing Lookman reduced Atletico Madrid’s attacking threat, especially in terms of pace and directness, which he believes ultimately benefited Arsenal.
“I watched the match. I’m not the Atletico Madrid coach, but when Diego Simeone removed Lookman early in the second half, he took away ‘speed’ from the team,” Bonfrere told Complete Sports on Wednesday morning.
Pace and creativity missing after substitution
Bonfrere further stressed that Lookman’s pace and ability in one-on-one situations were key to Atletico’s attacking balance, suggesting the team lost its edge after the change.
“Lookman had pace and was effective in one-on-one situations. But when Simeone decided to take him off in the 57th minute and replaced him with players who are more physically gifted, I knew Atletico Madrid would struggle.”
Simeone introduced Molina for Lookman 12 minutes into the second half at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal went on to seal a place in the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in 20 years, thanks to Bukayo Saka’s first-half strike.
Bonfrere dismisses Arsenal’s title chances
Despite Arsenal’s qualification, Bonfrere was not convinced they have what it takes to go all the way in the competition.
“If it’s Bayern or PSG, Arsenal won’t stand any chance because Bayern and PSG are more technically and tactically gifted sides,” Bonfrere said.
