Atlético Madrid Sweat On Lookman’s Fitness Ahead Of Semifinal Showdown With Arsenal

Diego Simeone has admitted that Ademola Lookman remains a major doubt for Atlético Madrid ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final first-leg encounter with Arsenal, revealing that the forward is still experiencing discomfort following a recent injury.

Lookman picked up the knock during Atlético’s Copa del Rey final defeat to Real Sociedad, where he was forced off in the second half. Since then, the Nigerian international has missed crucial La Liga fixtures against Elche CF and Athletic Bilbao, fuelling concerns over his availability for one of the biggest matches of Atlético’s season.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Simeone praised Lookman’s impact since joining the club from Atalanta in the winter transfer window, but stressed that no risks would be taken regarding his recovery.

“The truth is that his arrival has had a very positive impact on the team,” Simeone said. “He possesses unique attacking qualities and has improved significantly in his defensive work. However, we will assess his condition again tomorrow. He is still feeling some discomfort, so we must decide whether he can help us or not.”

Lookman has quickly established himself as a key figure in Atlético’s attacking setup. The former African Footballer of the Year has contributed two goals and two assists in six Champions League appearances this season, including a decisive strike in the quarter-final victory over FC Barcelona.

That goal proved pivotal as Atlético held firm to overturn a two-goal deficit and book their place in the semi-finals. His absence would therefore represent a significant blow as the Spanish side prepares to face a confident Arsenal team.

With the stakes incredibly high, Atlético’s medical staff are working around the clock to give Lookman every chance of featuring, but Simeone’s cautious tone suggests the final decision could go down to the wire.