For Ademola Lookman, a new season at Atlético Madrid could come with a familiar number — and potentially an even bigger role in the club’s attack.

The Nigerian forward has been linked with Atlético’s vacant No. 11 shirt following Thiago Almada’s departure, although the club has not yet officially confirmed the change.

Reports in Nigeria say Lookman has been assigned the No. 11 shirt ahead of the 2026/27 LaLiga season after Almada completed his move to River Plate.

Lookman wore No. 22 during his first six months at Atlético after joining from Atalanta in January. The No. 11 would not be unfamiliar territory for the Nigerian, who previously wore it during his time in Italy.

The bigger story for Atlético supporters is Lookman’s form. He scored nine goals in 24 appearances during his opening half-season with the Spanish club, quickly becoming an important attacking option.

However, Atlético's official squad information still lists Lookman as No. 22, so the reported switch to No. 11 should be treated as awaiting official confirmation.

A shirt number does not guarantee a starting place, but taking over a prominent number can reflect expectations around a player's importance.

For Nigerian fans, Lookman's next season will be closely watched as he attempts to build on his strong start in Spain and establish himself further under Diego Simeone.

The reported statistics vary slightly between sources. Vanguard says Lookman finished his first Atlético stint with nine goals and four assists in 24 appearances, while another statistical source records nine goals and three assists.

The No. 11 change itself remains the part that needs official confirmation.

If Lookman gets the shirt, the next question is simple: can he make No. 11 his own at Atlético?