Will Ademola Lookman play vs Arsenal? Atlético boss Simeone offers key fitness update

Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has given a cautious but reassuring update on Ademola Lookman after the forward picked up an injury in April’s Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad, Soccernet.ng reports.

Lookman was forced off in the 62nd minute of the match at La Cartuja after feeling a sharp pain in the second half. The Nigerian signalled to the bench immediately, raising concerns during a high-intensity contest.

Medical checks, including an MRI scan carried out on Monday, later confirmed the issue as an adductor muscle problem. Fortunately for Atlético, the injury was diagnosed as minor discomfort and muscle swelling rather than a serious tear. The club’s medical staff have since placed Lookman on an individual training programme, keeping him away from full team sessions to prevent further damage.

Simeone admitted the club acted just in time to avoid a worse outcome.

“Lookman still has to wait. Luckily, we brought him out at La Cartuja; otherwise, it could have been worse. But oh well… it's not a big deal.”

The forward has already missed a La Liga outing against Elche, with Atlético taking a careful approach to his recovery as they look ahead to a defining period in their season.

Ademola Lookman key to Atleti's Champions League ambition

Ademola Lookman will also miss Atlético’s upcoming league clash against Athletic Bilbao, with Simeone enforcing a strict no-risk policy. The decision reflects the club’s focus on having key players fully fit rather than risking a longer-term setback by rushing him back too soon.

There is, however, growing optimism that the 26-year-old could return in time for the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal on April 29. Early scans showed no structural damage, and with a recovery window of around one week, his availability remains realistic.

Lookman’s importance to Atlético has grown rapidly since his winter move from Atalanta. He has delivered 11 goal contributions and scored in key fixtures, including matches against Real Madrid and Barcelona. His pace and direct dribbling have added a new edge to Simeone’s counter-attacking system.

With fellow attacker Alexander Sørloth also managing a minor knock from the same final, Atlético are taking no chances. The club are effectively “wrapping their key attackers in cotton wool” as they prepare for the visit of Arsenal, prioritising peak fitness for what could be their biggest night of the season.