Lookman Declares Fitness Ahead Of Champions League Semifinal Clash With Arsenal

Ademola Lookman has handed Atlético Madrid a monumental boost by declaring himself fit and “raring to go” ahead of tomorrow’s UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal.

The Nigerian international’s availability had been shrouded in doubt after an abductor strain saw him sidelined for Atlético’s previous two La Liga outings. However, having successfully navigated a full first-team training session on Monday, the forward appears ready to haunt his hometown club at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

Speaking at a packed pre-match media briefing, Lookman was optimistic about his physical condition. “I missed the last few matches, but now I feel much better,” he told reporters.

For Lookman, the fixture carries a heavy emotional weight. Raised in south-east London, the 27-year-old’s journey from the cages of Peckham to the pinnacle of European football comes full circle this Wednesday. “The first time I played against Arsenal was when I was a kid, with Charlton. Wednesday will be a special game,” he reminisced.

Since his high-profile January move from Atalanta, Lookman has been a revelation in the Spanish capital. With seven goals and four assists already to his name, he has seamlessly integrated into Diego Simeone’s tactical framework, providing a blend of pace and clinical finishing that has revitalised Los Colchoneros.