Atlético sweat on Ademola Lookman fitness ahead of Champions League semi-final

Ademola Lookman is a major doubt for Atlético de Madrid ahead of their crucial Champions League semi-final clash with Arsenal after suffering an injury in the Copa del Rey final.

The Spanish club confirmed that the Nigerian forward sustained an adductor strain during the final against Real Sociedad, a match Atlético lost on penalties last Saturday.

Lookman, who had found the net during the game, was forced off in the 62nd minute, raising immediate concerns about his condition.

Following medical assessment, Atlético’s staff placed the player on an individual recovery programme, with the aim of managing the injury carefully and preventing further complications. As part of that plan, Lookman has been training separately from the main squad.

His absence has already been confirmed for upcoming La Liga fixtures against Elche CF and Athletic Bilbao, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his short-term availability.

With key matches approaching, the timing of the injury represents a significant setback for the team.

The focus is now on whether he can recover in time for the first leg of the Champions League semi-final, scheduled for April 29 at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. His participation remains in doubt as the club monitors his progress.

Since joining Atlético in January, Lookman has quickly become an important figure in the attacking setup under Diego Simeone.

He has scored seven goals in 18 appearances, underlining his influence in the final third.

His potential absence would leave a gap in Atlético’s attacking options at a decisive stage of the season, particularly with a high-profile European fixture on the horizon.

As preparations continue, the club are expected to take a cautious approach with his recovery, prioritising long-term fitness while hoping for a timely return ahead of one of their biggest matches of the campaign.