Ademola Lookman says joining Atletico Madrid is both a source of pride and a major responsibility, describing his move to the Spanish giants as a “blessing” following his official unveiling on Tuesday.

The Nigerian international has completed a high-profile transfer from Italian side Atalanta Bergamo, sealing a move reportedly worth around 40 million euros after weeks of speculation during the winter transfer window.

Although Lookman had been close to a switch elsewhere, with Turkish club Fenerbahçe strongly pursuing his signature, the forward ultimately chose La Liga, citing Atletico’s stature and the conversations he held before arriving in Madrid.

Speaking to the club’s media for the first time, Lookman explained that the opportunity to represent Atletico and Nigeria on such a stage played a decisive role in his decision.

“It’s a blessing for me to be here. I’m very happy. It’s fantastic for me to be here,” he said. “It’s a great responsibility to represent my country, but it’s also a pleasure to wear the colours of such a special club as Atletico. So I’m very proud. I had a good conversation with Diego Simeone before arriving.”

The move brings Lookman’s time in Italian football to an end and opens a new chapter in Spain, where he will test himself in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues under Atletico’s intense and disciplined style of play.

Atletico Madrid’s strong identity and competitive reputation were central to Lookman’s thinking, as he prepares to settle into Diego Simeone’s squad and adapt to the expectations that come with wearing the club’s famous red and white stripes.

With the transfer now complete, attention will shift to Lookman’s impact on the pitch, as Atletico continue their push in domestic and European competitions.

For the Nigerian forward, the decision represents more than just a change of club, it is a step shaped by ambition, pride and the honour of representing his country at one of Europe’s most established football institutions.