Atlético win 2-0 in LaLiga as Alvarez absence fuels Lookman debate

Atlético Madrid opened their LaLiga campaign with a 2-0 victory over Málaga. The result gave Diego Simeone’s side three points after a match in which Julián Alvarez did not feature, turning attention towards the club’s attacking hierarchy and its Nigerian forwards.

Atlético struggled to create a breakthrough before the interval as Málaga defended with discipline. The hosts eventually found a way through in the second half, with South Korea international Lee Kang-in coming off the bench to score in the 70th minute after Dávid Hancko supplied the assist.

Alex Baena added the second goal in the 85th minute, converting a free-kick to complete the opening-day win. The impact of the summer arrivals, combined with the victory despite Alvarez’s absence, has intensified debate over the Argentina forward’s future in Madrid.

Alvarez has been linked with a possible move to Barcelona in a deal valued at between €140 million and €150m. Simeone has maintained that Atlético intend to build their long-term attack around the World Cup winner, but sections of the club’s support have questioned his commitment and argued that the team should allow him to leave.

The match also prompted a reality check for Ademola Lookman, who is competing for regular minutes in a crowded Atlético attack. Supporters focused on the Nigerian’s work rate, defensive responsibilities and ability to deliver in limited opportunities, with the view that Simeone will select players based on performance rather than reputation or status.

That pressure has fed a separate push for Victor Osimhen. Some Atlético supporters want the club to use any money received from an Alvarez sale to pursue the Galatasaray striker, who is also attracting interest from Premier League clubs. For Lookman, the opening result underlined the demands of Simeone’s system: pressing, tracking back and producing decisive moments will be central to his bid for a starting place.