Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has delivered a worrying update on Ademola Lookman ahead of his side’s crucial Champions League meeting with Arsenal, casting fresh doubt over the Nigerian’s availability.
Lookman has been a key attacking outlet since his move to Atlético Madrid earlier this year, but fitness issues have now put his involvement in one of the club’s biggest games of the season in serious question.
Speaking before the semi-final clash, Simeone admitted the Super Eagles star is still struggling physically and has not fully recovered. The Argentine tactician revealed that the winger continues to feel discomfort, making it difficult to guarantee his place in the squad.
The concern stems from an injury sustained during Atletico’s recent Copa del Rey outing, where Lookman was forced off early. Since then, the club has taken a cautious approach, keeping him away from full training to avoid aggravating the issue.
Despite returning to light training, Simeone made it clear that Atletico are unwilling to take risks, especially with the magnitude of the fixture. The manager’s comments underline just how delicate the situation remains, even as the team prepares for a defining European night.
Lookman’s potential absence would be a major blow for Atletico. The 2024 African Player of the Year has quickly become an important figure in Simeone’s system, offering pace, directness, and goal threat in the final third.
His rise has been remarkable. Since joining from Atalanta, the London-born forward has added a new dimension to Atletico’s attack, even scoring on his debut and playing a role in their journey to the Champions League semi-finals.
For Arsenal, the uncertainty surrounding Lookman could come as a timely boost. The Premier League side are aiming to take control of the tie, and facing an Atletico side without one of their most dangerous attackers would significantly tilt the balance.
Still, Simeone is keeping the door slightly open. The final decision on Lookman’s involvement is expected to be made close to kick-off, depending on how the forward responds physically in the hours leading up to the match.
For now, Atletico remain in a race against time to have one of Nigeria’s brightest stars fit for a night that could define their European season.
