Lookman doubtful for Atlético’s UCL clash with Arsenal after copa del rey injury

Ademola Lookman is a major injury concern for Atlético Madrid ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final against Arsenal, after the Nigerian forward picked up a knock during the Copa del Rey final, Sport360NG reports.

The 28-year-old is set to miss upcoming domestic fixtures against Elche and Athletic Club, with growing uncertainty surrounding his fitness for the crucial European encounter later this month.

Atlético confirmed that both Lookman and Alexander Sørloth ended the final with physical discomfort and have been placed on individual recovery schedules as a precautionary measure.

“Ademola Lookman and Alexander Sørloth finished the Copa del Rey final with discomfort,” the club said in a statement.

“The club’s medical services have carried out tests that recommend maximum caution to avoid further injury, so they will follow personalised recovery programmes in the coming days, working away from the main group. Their return to team training will depend on their progress.”

According to reports from Marca, the fallout from the final has extended beyond the result, with both players now facing a race against time to be fit for the Arsenal clash.

Lookman, who was substituted for Sørloth in the second half, is reportedly dealing with swelling in his adductor muscle and is expected to be sidelined for at least a week.

With Arsenal scheduled to travel to the Metropolitano on April 29, the tight recovery window leaves Atlético sweating over the forward’s availability, although he has already begun rehabilitation work with the club’s medical team.

His potential absence would represent a significant setback for Atlético, given his impact since joining during the winter transfer window. Lookman has registered 11 goal contributions in that period, the second-highest in the squad, and recently became the first Nigerian to score in a Copa del Rey final since Finidi George in 1997.