Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has thrown his support behind Jules Koundé to handle the growing threat of Ademola Lookman as Atlético Madrid prepare to host the Catalan giants in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, Soccernet.ng reports.
The two La Liga heavyweights meet on Thursday at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in an encounter that revives last season’s last-four clash.
Ten-time winners Atlético are aiming to dethrone the defending champions, while Barcelona arrive determined to continue their strong recent record in the competition.
Flick’s side will be without Marcus Rashford, but teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is expected to provide attacking spark. Still, much of the pre-match attention has centred on Atlético’s newest star, Lookman, who has made an explosive start since arriving from Atalanta in a €35 million deadline-day deal.
The Nigerian winger announced himself in spectacular fashion with a goal and an assist on his Copa del Rey debut as Atlético swept aside Real Betis 5-0 in the previous round.
Known for rising to big occasions, Lookman is already being tipped as a potential game-changer against a Barcelona side in fine form.
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Barcelona's Flick trusts Koundé to meet Lookman challenge
With Lookman’s pace, direct running and sharp finishing posing a serious danger, Koundé is expected to be tasked with stopping him down Barcelona’s right flank.
Flick insisted the French defender has the mentality and resilience needed for such a demanding battle, even if the contest does not begin smoothly.
“For me, Koundé is always a fighter,” Flick said at his pre-match press conference as per Marca.
“Sometimes we don't have our best day, we're human. He always fights and tries to recover when he doesn't get off to a good start. His mentality is top-notch and he'll show that tomorrow. It's a tough match because I really like Atlético de Madrid's style of play, with a very clear philosophy and they're not easy to defend against.”
Lookman’s reputation in knockout competitions backs up the excitement around him. He has been involved in five goals across eight FA Cup appearances in England, scored twice in the EFL Cup, and recorded three goals and one assist in five Coppa Italia matches.
However, Barcelona will offer his stiffest challenge yet.
Historically, Barcelona have enjoyed the upper hand, winning eight of the last ten meetings between the sides and remaining unbeaten in their last eight Copa del Rey clashes with Atlético.
