Ademola Lookman Returns to Atletico Madrid Training Ahead of Champions League Semi-Final vs Arsenal

Atletico Madrid have received a significant injury update ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final against Arsenal, with Nigerian international Ademola Lookman returning to full training sessions with the squad.

Lookman had been absent from action after sustaining an adductor injury during the Copa del Rey final, an absence that forced him to sit out La Liga matches against Elche and Athletic Club. His return represents a timely development for Diego Simeone, with the first leg scheduled for Wednesday at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid.

In a post shared on April 27, 2026, Atletico Madrid’s official account confirmed that Lookman and fellow returnee Hancko had rejoined the squad, with only Jose Gimenez and Pablo Barrios remaining unavailable through injury. Training footage released by the club showed the forward participating in both recovery drills and group sessions.

Since completing his move from Atalanta in January 2026, Lookman has quickly established himself as a key figure in Simeone’s 4-4-2 setup, occupying the left-midfield position. Among his contributions in that time was a decisive goal in Atletico’s quarter-final victory over Barcelona, which helped propel the Spanish side into the final four of Europe’s premier club competition.

For Simeone, who is targeting Atletico’s first Champions League final appearance since 2016 — when the club lost to city rivals Real Madrid on penalties — having Lookman available could prove critical against an Arsenal side currently sitting at the top of the Premier League.

The two-legged tie begins at the Metropolitano Stadium on Wednesday, April 30, before the decisive second leg at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 5, 2026. Arsenal will be aware that a fit Lookman significantly strengthens an Atletico attack that has been one of the more potent in this season’s competition.

Lookman, who has represented Nigeria at senior international level, joined Atletico Madrid having previously made a substantial impact at Atalanta, including a standout performance in European competition. His ability to operate effectively in Simeone’s rigid tactical structure has made him a key asset for the La Liga club during a pivotal phase of the season.