Diego Simeone Gives Injury Update on Ademola Lookman Ahead of Atlético Madrid vs Arsenal UCL Semi-Final

Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has provided an important update on the fitness of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal.

Lookman picked up an injury during the Copa del Rey final defeat to Real Sociedad, forcing him off in the second half. Since then, he has missed La Liga fixtures against Elche CF and Athletic Bilbao, raising doubts over his availability for the crucial European tie.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Simeone praised Lookman’s impact since joining the club but confirmed that a final decision on his participation will depend on a late fitness assessment.

“The truth is that his arrival has had a very positive impact on the team. He truly possesses some distinguishing offensive qualities. He is improving significantly in his defensive contributions. We will assess his recovery tomorrow… therefore, we will determine if he can assist us or not,” Simeone said via Futbol Fantasy.

Since arriving from Atalanta during the winter transfer window, Lookman has become an important figure for Atlético Madrid. The former African Footballer of the Year has registered two goals and two assists in six Champions League appearances, including a decisive strike against FC Barcelona in the quarter-final second leg that helped secure Atlético’s place in the semi-finals.

Opinion: Lookman’s Fitness Could Shape Atlético’s European Fate

The situation around Ademola Lookman highlights just how thin the margins are at this stage of the UEFA Champions League.

Since joining Atlético Madrid, Lookman has quickly become more than just a squad player—he has delivered decisive moments in key matches. His goal against FC Barcelona alone shows how influential he can be under pressure.

For Diego Simeone, the dilemma is clear: risk a partially fit match-winner or rely on depth in a high-stakes semi-final against a dangerous Arsenal side.

In matches like this, fitness updates often feel like tactical weapons themselves. Even uncertainty around a player’s availability can influence preparation and mindset on both sides.

But one thing is certain—if Lookman is even close to fit, Atlético Madrid will be tempted to involve him. Because at this stage of the competition, moments decide outcomes, and he has already shown he can deliver them.